Take a dive into the blue (From Penarth Times)

Take a dive into the blue

IF THE idea of searching through shipwrecks or getting up close to sealife off the Welsh coast appeals to you, Penarth Subaqua Club could be just the place to get started.

The club, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is currently looking to expand its membership.

Originally the club was based at the old Penarth Baths on the Esplanade.

There has always been a strong membership of about 30 divers and over the years the club has been able to run trips to Malta and to Tenerife.

Club secretary Richard Gough said: "We are offering people with no previous experience of diving the chance to learn in six weeks for just 40.

"The club has equipment which people learning to dive can use - although they would have to buy their own at a later stage.

"We also welcome experienced divers interested in coming along."

The six-week course for beginners will start in January on Wednesday evenings at Penarth Leisure Centre between 8pm and 10pm. It will involve an hour of theory and an hour of practical.

The club has its own 6.5 metre inflatable boat and runs trips every other weekend in the diving season from March to October.

Richard said: "We practise in Cosmeston Lakes and also use a diving centre at a quarry near Leicester. In season we also get out to sea regularly.

"There are five or six wrecks off the coast near Milford Haven that we regularly visit - one was carrying a cargo of whiskey another coal.

"I have often dived abroad but I think there is just as much to see in British waters when visibility is good."