13 July 2026
Ashington Town Council is once again funding free swimming sessions at Ashington Leisure Centre throughout the summer holidays, giving local families a fun, safe and cost-free way to enjoy the school break.
The popular free swim initiative returns from Wednesday 22 July to Saturday 29 August 2026, with two sessions running every week:
Every Wednesday, 1:00pm to 2:00pm Every Saturday, 2:30pm to 3:30pm
There is no need to book – simply turn up at Ashington Leisure Centre to claim a free swim. Eighty slots are available at each session, allocated on a first come, first served basis, so swimmers are encouraged to arrive in good time.
Insect populations in the UK have suffered drastic declines, with far-reaching consequences for both wildlife and human well-being. As pollinators of one-third of our food crops and a critical component of food webs, the continued loss of insects poses a grave threat to biodiversity, ecosystem health, and ultimately our ability to address climate change effectively.
Recent reports indicate that 41% of the Earth's remaining five million insect species are now threatened with extinction, with the UK experiencing losses of 50% or more since 1970. This alarming trend is exacerbated by habitat loss, pesticide use, and other environmental pressures, many of which are linked to climate change.
Ashington Town Council has a unique opportunity to take immediate action to support insect populations and promote biodiversity. This report proposes a comprehensive set of measures, including:
1. Making a public commitment to help insects and other wildlife thrive.
2. Signing up to The Wildlife Trust's 'Take Action for Insects' initiative.
3. Embedding considerations for insect recovery into all maintenance and environmental decisions.
4. Creating and restoring insect-friendly habitats on council-managed lands.
5. Investigating and reducing pesticide use on allotment sites and in grounds maintenance.
6. Promoting public awareness and engagement through citizen science initiatives and educational campaigns.
To view the full Emergency Action for Insects Motion click here
13 July 2026
Ashington Town Council is once again funding free swimming sessions at Ashington Leisure Centre throughout the summer holidays, giving local families a fun, safe and cost-free way to enjoy the school break.
The popular free swim initiative returns from Wednesday 22 July to Saturday 29 August 2026, with two sessions running every week:
Every Wednesday, 1:00pm to 2:00pm Every Saturday, 2:30pm to 3:30pm
There is no need to book – simply turn up at Ashington Leisure Centre to claim a free swim. Eighty slots are available at each session, allocated on a first come, first served basis, so swimmers are encouraged to arrive in good time.
