Backtracking on a manifesto pledge of free swimming for all residents could land Lambeth Council bosses in deep water with residents.

Labour was elected with an increased majority at the May election off the back of a manifesto including the offer of free swimming for every resident at specific times – and for under 18s and over 60s at all times.

But the administration announced last week all under 18s and over 60s will now have to pay £1.

No deal of free swimming for every resident has yet been offered.

Councillor Florence Nosegbe, cabinet member for culture, sport and the 2012 Games, blamed binning the election promise on the Liberal Democrat and Conservative Government’s “cruel” axeing of its funding for a national free swimming programme this summer.

She said: “The loss of the grant funding at a time when we are already facing a real term reduction of about 30 per cent in funding means we simply cannot afford to provide free swimming any longer.

“For the council to wholly subsidise the free swimming scheme would simply not be affordable in the current climate, but by offering swims for £1 we are making sure a trip to the pool remains a cheap day out for families, and a great way of promoting healthy living and combating obesity.”

Under the new scheme being offered by the council, under 16s will also be able to swim for £1 with a Real Plus card –to be automatically issued to those already registered on the previous free swimming scheme.

Over 60s will be able to get a Real Plus pay-as-you-go membership card for free before October 13, which qualifies them for discounted swimming at £1 a session as well as other discounts of up to 55 per cent at Lambeth leisure centres.

Protecting Lambeth’s firework displays was also in the Labour manifesto.

Last month the council announced two of its three bonfire night displays would be axed.