IT wasn't a joke. For some inexplicable reason, Wychavon Leisure has chosen to abolish the concessionary rate for the popular morning H2O classes at its three pools from April 1, whilst reducing the rate for swimmers under 50.

The increase of 90p from £3.60 is particularly savage for older customers who may not be able or willing to use other gym machinery or to exercise energetically on dry land.

I am in my seventies and have advanced osteoarthritis. I find that the buoyancy from the water allows an excellent range of activity for all muscle groups.

However, the hour of strenuous exercise is quite enough and, like many of the class, I would not be able to continue with other exercise options in the “Easy Morning” programme that the new £4.50 charge includes.

Whilst I appreciate that prices do have to rise regularly, an increase of the order of 20-30p like we had last year would be so much fairer and affordable.

Dr Felix Borchardt

Fladbury