A life-saving group in Aberystwyth has been given a cash boost which will enable them to buy new equipment.

Aberystwyth Surf Life Saving Club has just taken delivery of new equipment bought with financial aid from Crochan Aur Bro Aberystwyth.

The Crochan Aur is a new Participatory Budgeting scheme whereby members of the community decided, in a meeting held online, which applications to approve for financial aid.

It is funded by the office of the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner, Tai Wales and West Housing, Barcud Housing and Aberystwyth Town Council.

The Surf Life Saving Club’s successful application was presented by video by two of its committee members – Catrin Dafis and Misha Fox-Maderson.

The grant of £1,000 was used towards the purchase of three new training boards which will be used by the older ‘nippers’ and younger ‘juniors’ (around 10 to 13-year-olds) as they start serious training as life savers. Many of the members go on to work for the RNLI as beach lifeguards in Ceredigion, so serving their community.

The club succeeded in holding training sessions last year and hopes to start training on the sea again in May.

Safety, of course, in and out of the water, is paramount and the club will adhere strictly to Covid regulations. Training is held in Welsh and in English and is led by qualified lifeguards and trainers.

The equipment used for training and lifesaving is expensive; the club has a policy of purchasing enough equipment to enable anyone to take part without having to buy their own kit. The club’s fund-raising officer, Jeremy Turner, would be more than happy to meet anyone interested in offering financial assistance to the club.

The club has grown in numbers over the last 10 years and now has over 70 members with a long waiting list.

Established in 1963, the club’s mission is to educate members of the local community about water safety, improve first aid skills, encourage physical fitness and above all have fun.

The club is made up of a team of dedicated volunteers from within the local community who feel passionate about enjoying the beach environment that Aberystwyth and the surrounding areas have to offer and want to help keep those using the water safe.

Our voluntary service has resulted in the qualification of many young lifeguards most of whom have gone on to work for the RNLI.

They hold regular training sessions throughout the year, on North beach in the summer months and in the pool during the winter during normal times.

The club also attends competitions and events throughout the year.

More information on the club, joining or donating, can be found on its website, www.aberystwythslsc.org.

Other groups that have secured funding from Crochan Aur include Aberkayakers and “Caban Cwtch” log cabin project at Ysgol Llwyn yr Eos, Penparcau, creating a safe space for children and their families.