MORE and more people are taking advantage of a discount leisure scheme run by Oxford City Council.

The number of people paying for the council's Slice cards by direct debit has increased by 19 per cent since last year, from 1,492 to 1,778 users.

Children have also been taking up the offer of free swimming sessions, with more than 6,500 registered for the new Kids Swim Free slice card.

A spokesman for the city council said that was equal to 54,904 actual free swims.

The Bonus slice card for people on means tested benefits has also seen an 11 per cent rise in the number of people taking up the offer.

Alan Armitage, city councillor and executive member for a Healthier Environment, said: "We are delighted with the continued success of the Slice Card system in Oxford.

"Major projects such as the recently completed Barton Pool and the newly refurbished Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre have improved the standard and variety of leisure facilities in the city.

"There is no doubt that giving residents the opportunity to use these improved leisure facilities has helped improve take-up of the Slice Card."

The slice card can be used at the Ferry Sports Centre, Temple Cowley Pools, Oxford Ice Rink, Hinksey Pool during the open season, Peers Sports Centre, Blackbird Leys Leisure Centre and Pool, Barton Pool, and at various parks.

Mr Armitage said the council might review the scheme to see if facilities such as bowling greens could be included.

For more information about the slice card, which is available to non-Oxford residents, visit www.oxford.co.uk/leisure/slice-card.cfm or call 01865 467245.