SUPPORTED by their friends, Okehampton Otters' Angus Cunningham, Evie Duffy, Beth Frangleton, Ella Percival, Anna Speak and Callum White were presented with their silver medallions and certificates by the mayor of Okehampton recently.  

In warmly congratulating them, Cllr the Rev Davies spoke of his experiences when he was a lifeguard, the benefits of the Royal Lifesaving Society's qualifications, and the value of helping others.  Tony Clark, Otters' senior lifesaver, thanked David Bowles, who had taught the group, and the club's other instructors.  In particular, Hugh Clark, whose dedication as a young instructor has been recognised nationally by the award of a Certificate of Merit, and Izzy Euan will shortly convert her assistant instructors qualification into a fully qualified instructor on her 18th birthday.

The next Survive and Save course is starting now at Parklands Leisure Centre on Friday evenings at 6pm.  During the two term course, candidates for the bronze then silver medallion will develop skills and knowledge in aquatic survival, rescue and first aid.  No previous lifesaving experience is required but candidates must be competent swimmers and over 12 years of age. The qualification supports sport GCSE and can be used as a skills activity for the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Some lifesavers also progress to the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification which is necessary for employment as a lifeguard, while others advance to their gold medallion and develop their instructional skills, which can be used for the volunteering activity of the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme. 

The club also helps younger members, eight year olds and over, to improve their swimming survival and learn to help others while having fun. A new Rookie group is just being formed for youngsters, who should already be able to swim four lengths continuously and with confidence.

For further information call Tony Clark on 01837 840283 or meet at Parklands Swimming Pool at 6 pm on Friday. 

l Pictured above, Okehampton Otters receive their silver medallions and Royal Life Saving Society Certificates from Cllr the Rev Davies, mayor of Okehampton.