Reduced leisure facility membership will be offered to veterans and those serving in the armed forces as part of a new Stoke-on-Trent City Council scheme.

The 'Active Heroes' membership will allow residents who have served to access a 30 per cent discount on gym memberships at Fenton Manor Sports Complex, Dimensions and the Wallace Centre.

Individuals with an 'Active Heroes' membership will also be able to take one child swimming for free.

Councillor Steve Watkins, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and Armed Forces Champion, said: "As a veteran, I am so proud that our city is so supportive of the armed forces and that veterans are treated with fairness and understanding.

"It is important we continue to recognise their contribution and create opportunities for them to make connections and be active in the community."

Stoke-on-Trent City Council hopes that the scheme will build on previous work to support veterans and those serving in the armed forces.

The city council holds a Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012, which is a national promise to make sure those who are serving or have served in the armed forces are treated fairly and equally.

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council said: "Our armed forces communities carry out vital work, and we are committed as a city council to supporting them.

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"This offer will mean more residents who have served can access many leisure facilities at a discounted rate, which will help towards their physical and mental wellbeing. I encourage all who are eligible to take advantage of this offer."

People can prove eligibility for the membership offer, which has no joining fee and no contract expectations, using their armed forces identification at one of the participating leisure centres.

Prices for the Active Heroes offer:

• Dimensions - £18.20 per month
• Fenton Manor - £23.80 per month
• Wallace Centre - £16.45 per month
• Multi-site membership - £25.90 per month

To find out more, visit the Active Stoke website here.