After hours of lifesaving training in freezing open water, members of Aquarius swimming club have achieved their 'Open Water Award' Bronze and Silver crosses this summer. The awards involve individuals rescuing one or two casualties from close to land and further from land while fully clothed, resuscitation techniques and how to to treat hypothermia, shock and drowning. The swimmers also have to take a theory test on hazards, water safety and environmental factors.

Aquarius coach, Cathy Atkins, said: The Open Water Award is a really good achievement because being in cold open water, fully clothed, makes a real difference. It is far more realistic and closer to the situation you would encounter in an emergency." See the advert below for contact details for Aquarius Swimming Club.