Llantrisant
Sub-Aqua Club
www.llantrisantdivers.com
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The
Posting Page
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This
page has been added specifically for the "postings"
of our club secretary Phil Dewhurst (Phil the Post).
He has for some time, submitted postings of the dive weekends
and other club events that have been published on our web site
so that members can read about the wonderful times we have spent
diving in West Wales and abroad and the other significant events
relating to our club.
Any other club members who have a story to tell about their
diving adventures or anything else of interest are also welcome
to post them on this page.
These articles make very good reading and I'm sure, will encourage
other members to join us for dive weekends down in West Wales. |
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The
Ponty Big Bite.
For the
third year running the club had a stand at the Ponty Big Bite.
This festival held over three days in the beautiful Ynysangharad
Park Pontypridd attracted over 20,000 visitors. And there
was plenty of interesting things for them to see including
stalls laden with tempting foods and a full programme of displays
including dancing dogs, dancing kids, lumberjacks, even sheep
dogs herding ducks.
Our
stand was in the Well Being Zone, a marquee occupied with
groups and societies promoting healthy lifestyles. Last year
we were situated next to the alcohol abuse team and I wondered
who had been telling tales. This year our neighbours were
from heart- start. One of their team was a diver so we managed
to get the latest info on how to handle an emergency.
We
used material kindly provided by the SAA and the Marine Conservation
Society; the kids were thrilled to pick up glossy pics showing
seal pups and coral. Irene from the SAA loaned us two stands
which added colour to our display and we took along a couple
of laptops.
Our DVDs shot on recent club trips and some stills of a training
event held at the National Dive Centre Chepstow had a constant
audience.
Club
members took it in turns to man the stand and Im grateful
to Owain Jenkins, Mike Rees, Sam Ady, Mark Jones, Richie Grice,Tall
Paul, Paul The Gas Ray Williams, Gareth
H and young Rachael for their efforts; I dont know what
they all do for a living but if they show as much enthusiasm
in their work as they did promoting our sport their bosses
are lucky people. Apologies if I missed anyone out and please
tell me if I did so I can add your name to the list of honour.
Our
name the diver competition was well supported;
the mannequin dressed as a diver was very realistic but Im
not sure about the open mouth and judging by some of the names
submitted neither were the public at large!
By
3:00pm on Sunday we were close to 150 names and telephone
numbers from people interested in having a go at Try-A-Dive
and just before the show closed Mark Jones got the 150th candidate
to enter their details on the list.
The
event closed at 5:00pm. Sunday. By 6:00 wed cleared
the stand and left the park. Mark Richie and me then retired
to Rickards for a well earned pint.
Over our drinks we talked about the stand, the club and diving
in general and concluded that Big Bite is a good showcase
for our sport and our club. Were already making plans
for 2011.
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Weight
Watchers.
Ok,
I put my hands up; Im guilty as charged, I did it and
in front of witnesses who cant be trusted to keep their
gobs shut. I thought that divers were supposed to be buddies
and remember Billy Whiz telling me not long after Id
joined the club that what happens on the boat stays on the
boat. So was I entitled to think that if I did something daft
whilst diving and my MATES were there to see me do it, theyd
be entitled to see the funny side, maybe pee themselves laughing
but the matter would be left there? I think so. Thats
not how it was. Somebody just couldnt keep schtum and
bad news spreads faster than swine flu.
So
heres the senario. Despite what happened, Id had
a good days diving and was on my way home. My mobile
was on the passenger seat amongst various junk. I was making
good progress and would soon be necking one or three Speckled
Hens.
Then
the phone went. I glanced at the tiny screen. The name Dai
Flip Flop was pulsing and an image formed in my mind of a
thin baldy guy who used to dive some time ago but then went
off to do cliff jumping or blancmange juggling or something
equally engrossing. What the hell could he want? I pulled
over, stopped the engine and the conversation went something
like this.
Hi
Dai what can I do for you?
I
just heard
Just
heard what?
Just
heard you jumped in without your weight belt.
Who
told you?
Had
a text. Is it true
Yes.
Who
blabbed?
Not
telling you. Got to go.
Silence.
By now he was probably telling the world or at very least
the diving fraternity via twitter or face book and Ive
got a feeling that what happened to me today could well get
a late mention on the 6.00pm news.
So
I admit it. Phil jumped ship without his weight belt. And
I wondered why I couldnt get down, DOH!! Fair play to
the boys on the boat, when they eventually stopped laughing
they hauled me back on board, helped me de-kit then re-kit
and re-enter the water, this time plus 12Kg of lead
.
Then via the wonders of technology they began to tell the
world.
Of
course there is a serious side to this. When I first started
diving the need to carry out buddy checks was mandatory. BRWAF
- BCD, Releases, Weight belt, Air and Final Check
Common
sense I hear you say, so why dont us experienced
divers do it? Is it because we think were too good for
any of that? Or because we just cant be bothered? Or
is it a combination of both? Whatever, I didnt check
my gear or my buddies and thus deserve to join the Hall
Of Shame that includes some very famous names including:
1.
Richard Rattle who rolled off the boat minus his fins. We
were on the Smalls where the tide runs fast. He was some way
away before we stopped laughing and was fuming when we finally
managed to catch up with him.
2.
Mark Jones who whilst diving off Skomer one chilly day in
April, forgot to check his dry suit zip was fastened. It wasnt
a dry suit that day.
And I wont be the last on the list; as my fingers fly
over the keypad news comes through of another incident. Whilst
diving off Stack Rocks none other than Dai Flip Flop rolled
off the tubes only to discover he wasnt going to get
anywhere fast without his fins. See. It can happen to anybody.
Dai, it wasnt me who blabbed
Honest.
Whos
going to be next?
PHIL. THE POST
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It's
all in a day's diving.
How is that we meet up at 9.00 but it's dinnertime before
we ready to dive. I've tried for ions to come up with a solution
to this persistent problem but there's always something to
cause delays. This time it started with the lack of a cupboard
key. Now you'd think with two committee men present we'd have
at least one key between us. No. I was sure Lyn would have
one he thought I'd have one. We were both wrong. Luckily Dai
Flip Flop had one and he went back to his caravan to get it.
Meantime we waited.
Now
there's not a lot to do at Monty's. When we used to met at
West Wales Divers there was the café and I've spent
many a happy hour there gorging on pure cholesterol whilst
others who can (I can't) have tinkered with screws and played
around with wires. There's no café at Monty's, there's
not a lot at Monty's but fair play it's a safe haven for the
boats and without the distraction of a café we should
be on the water quicker. But we're not. We should be more
prepared. But we're not.
Fifteen
minutes later Dai arrives back with the key. Meanwhile Lyn
is debating the weather forecast with the coastguard. There's
some concern about the wind direction and speed, finally they
concur. Wind, north, north-west, force 3 to 4.
Having
a key is one thing getting into the cupboard is another. This
requires a two part manoeuvre involving a pair of rusty old
pliers and a lot of brute strength. It goes something like
this.
- Using
a key, undo the padlocks top and bottom.
- Insert
the pliers between the bottom of the cupboard door and the
slabs; using your left hand apply upward pressure.
- With
your right hand, remove the locks then ease the hasps away
from the staples.
- If
this fails delegate the task to someone more able.
If you've
applied enough pressure with the left hand, the hasps come
away easy and all you suffer are rust encrusted fingers that
are still stained even after a day's diving. If you get this
pressure wrong be sure to count your finger ends when the
door finally springs. If you're unsure number 4 applies.
Loading the boat takes ten minutes, after all we've done it
zillions of times; oxygen, first aid box, tool box, throw-
line. Have we an anchor and a dive flag on board? Is the radio
working? Will the engine start? Yes. Yes. And Yes.
It's going too well. We fit the trailer board only to discover
the coupling on the Pajero has corroded and is dangling. A
search in the back of the cupboard results in a mould encrusted
bungy cord. Lyn, ever resourceful, probably a boy scout maybe
even a policeman in an earlier life, lashes the coupling to
the bumper. This provides a temporary repair which will survive
until either:
- The
bungy rots or
- The
clips rust through or
- Martin
finds out and throws a wobbly.
It's 10.15
and we're almost ready to roll. Now LSAC is, has always been
a democratic club, we all have a say about where to launch
and where to dive after which Lyn decides we're launching
from Gelliswick but hey, he's a big fella and who's going
to argue? Not me, cause whilst we're topping up with fuel
I can buy some food and drink which I've somehow forgotten
to bring along.
Chris the Kiwi in his swanky Merc takes the lead, Lyn in the
Pajero towing the boat is in the middle and I follow up keeping
a watch through the rear view mirror at the evil eye from
the driver of the following car who has to crawl behind at
20mph until we turn off the main road for Milford. The journey
passes without incident, we even have a trailer board that
works and that's got to be a first. Lyn tops the fuel then
adds £20+ of diesel to the Pajero tank. We're ready
to rock and roll.
There
are several dive boats waiting to launch at Gelliswick which
just goes to prove we're not the only dive club who couldn't
organise a you know what and where. We take the straps off,
detach the trailer board, put the little plastic plug into
the hole at the back of the boat, take the wedge from behind
the engine and load the gear. It's all going like clockwork
and I can't help thinking maybe just maybe we'll get a dive
before noon but I hadn't accounted for the crew who one by
one traipse down to the little boy's room and spend what seems
like ages. I follow suit; when you're grave side of 60 it
pays to squeeze out the last little drop especially if you're
wearing a dry-suit.
We're
ready to launch and with almost military precision Lyn backs
the trailer down the slip where the tide has somehow waited
for our entrance. We undo the painter from the trailer and
push; the boat glides off, Dai FF leaps aboard, the engine
fires.
Ten
minutes later we're on our way. Chris the Kiwi has been eyeing
the controls but he doesn't stand a chance. I've decided to
have a go and having exercised my rights as a committee man
I take the wheel and head for Skokholm. I'm bloody ruthless
not!
There's a bit of a swell around St. Anne's head but nothing
we can't handle and the new engine plows the rib through the
waves almost without effort. I familiarise myself with the
dials and note there's enough technical info to keep Martin
happy for years to come.
We
arrive at the island at 12.30 and jostle for space in a sea
crowded with puffins, seals and razorbills. Lyn decides to
dive with Dai FF and John Crabhook Evans. As they prepare
their equipment Lyn's regulator decides it's time to play
up and he needs to effect running repairs. We watch as he
strips his second stage, waggles the needle, applies pressure
in just the right place and puts it all back together again.
Meanwhile John dons his rig, a wonder of straps and clips
that all have colour matched ends so you know which bit clips
in where or at least John knows which bit clips in
where. Dia FF dives in a wet-suit. He's hard. We're drifting
close to an unfamiliar buoy with the letters PYC painted on
it. So what! Lyn decides they'll go down the rope attached
to the buoy; we watch as one by one the first team descend
in a cloud of bubbles.
Shortly afterwards an expensive looking yacht can be seen
coming towards us, it reaches the buoy and turns swiftly.
In a flurry of sails and ropes, an efficient crew meet the
conditions change tack and they're on their way again. Another
yacht approaches. It dawns on me, ( I admit to being a bit
slow)we're in the middle of a yacht race-track. Luckily when
our divers surface it's some distance away. We poodle (as
Chris likes to say) over. By this time he has charge of the
wheel and is sporting a big smile. Lyn is first to the boat.
"Quick,
grab my weight-belt," he shouts. Chris, reluctant to
leave go of the wheel in case I grab it, is a fraction late
The weight-belt is consigned to the depths. We recover all
the divers. They report good viz but bugger-all else. John
is convinced we should have gone to Stack Rock I wonder why?
Dai FF is shivering, maybe he ain't so hard after all, Lyn
looks glum, he's mourning the loss of his belt. Now I knew
it was sort of newish because he usually wears a leather contraption
that would look better on a shire-horse. This one looked proper
almost.
"Was
it expensive?" I ask
"No,"
he replied turning to look at me with big soulful eyes, "I
had it off Gatchie, he found it on Stack last year, suppose
I'll have to buy one now though, maybe one with a harness."
I
look at Crabhook. He's unfastening his cat's cradle of straps
and belts. I decide there and then to stick with my tried
and trusted
Thank you very much.
Equipment
problems multiply. The Kiwi's first stage won't couple to
his air cylinder. We try a variety of O rings. No joy. Lyn
has a go and eventually forces a seal. By now it's 2.00pm
and I still haven't dived. I wait patiently until Chris seems
happy with his regs. We cross check and roll in.
By
heck but it's bloody cold. We go down the rope and meet at
the bottom. Viz is good. I take the lead, Chris follows. We
scour the gullies and rocks. There are the usual spider crabs,
wrasse and Pollack and some very pretty sea cucumbers. I look
at my computer dial, the water temperature reads 11.0C. I'm
cold but glad to be underwater. We swim around for 30 minutes
till Chris points to his air gauge which is behaving oddly.
It's time to go. We surface. I'm glad because by this time
I'm freezing.
Only
John and I want to do a second dive. We promise to look for
Lyn's belt but there's little chance of finding it as we were
drifting when he dropped it. The viz is still good but with
no sign of the lost belt, within minutes, John returns to
scouring the seabed. There's little in the way of crustaceans
however and after 25 minutes the cold kicks in forcing us
to surface.
Chris
drives the boat; it's consolation for his regs which will
need a major overall before he can use them again. He enjoys
the responsibility but is disappointed that the sea has flattened
off somewhat. He wanted a go at the 3 metre swells we met
on our way out. The water is lapping the slip at Gelliswick.
Lyn backs the trailer down, we couple up and take turns on
the winch to recover the boat.
Back
at Monty's we store the gear, flush the engine and wash the
tubes. It's been an eventful day, as is normal for the start
of the season. There's been issues, but between us we've met
the challenges, found solutions and enjoyed each other's company;
that's what it's all about. I'd be willing to wager Jacque
Cousteau didn't have half as much fun.
PHIL. THE POST
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He
bought a boat!
A guy bought a new boat and decided to take her for her maiden
voyage.
This was his first boat and he wasn't quite sure of the exact
procedure for launching it off a slip but he figured it couldn't
be too difficult.
He consulted his local boat dealer for advice but they just
said "don't let the trailer get too deep when you are
trying to launch the boat".
Well, he didn't know what they meant by that as he could barely
get the trailer in the water at all!
Anyhow, here's a picture below.
You're gonna love this bloke!!!

You
can't make this stuff up!
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Sharm
Experience
by Mike Rees
My
wife and I booked two weeks at the Coral Hills Hotel in Sharm
el Sheikh starting 10th Jan 2010. The plan was for me to get
in 5 days diving and spend the rest of the time together soaking
up the sun.
Back at home with yet more snow forecast for Sunday morning
(flight day) we wisely made a last minute decision to stay
overnight at The George and Dragon just half a mile from Bristol
airportl. Just £55 for a comfortable room and full English
gave us a stress free start to the holiday.
The outward journey went well. Flying with Thompson we each
had 20kg luggage allowance plus I had a free 5 kg for diving
equipment. No hassle at the check in desk but I had a copy
of their email confirming it just in case. We duly arrived
at the Coral Hills at 11pm. The restaurant had closed but
the helpful bar staff quickly rustled up some food from somewhere
and changed our room to one on the second floor at our request.
Next
day we visited the new on site dive centre run
by Alun and Moria Evans of Elite Diver fame where we were
given a typical valleys welcome loads of
tea and plenty of banter.
Alun has been providing diving in Egypt for a few years now
but has only recently opened the new Dive Centre. He has already
started giving Welsh language lessons to his staff so Welsh
divers can be expected to be greeted by Bora Da in
an Egyptian or Italian accent every morning. For my part I
helped by demonstrating one of the meanings of couch
to the lovely Francesca.
I
dropped off my kit at the centre and thereafter it appeared
washed and cleaned on the boat for every dive. I prefer to
do an initial shore dive just to test/confirm my kit is ok
rather than risk finding a problem on the boat and waste a
days diving.
So Francesca took my wife and I to the beach at Sharks Bay
for a pleasant afternoon. No problem with my kit and a nice
dive to boot.
Aluns usual boat is Delphin 2 which I found
to be quite good. There was plenty of room for divers and
the food was excellent. The crew were always smiling and eager
to help with your kit. We alternated the diving between Ras
Mohamed and the reefs off Tiran.
As usual, unless there are enough divers to fill the boat
it is sometimes shared with other dive centres but only once
did I find it a bit crowded. I had two weeks to get in my
5 day diving so I was able to pick and chose when I went diving
to avoid the busy times.
In
the first week our dive leader was Steve who was as solid
as a rock yet still prepared to think outside the box when
it came to selecting dive sites.
For example Woodhouse, a long narrow reef is generally
a drift dive on the more sheltered Tiran side of the reef
because normally the sea on the Egyptian side is just too
lumpy for the safe recovery of divers.
But when we arrived at Woodhouse with just 6 divers and unusually
calm seas we decided to dive the backside of Woodhouse
to examine the damage caused by the Hamburg which
ran onto the reef on 31st December.
The
damage was a huge vee shaped gouge directly into the reef.
There was a metal box 3 metres deep which we thought could
be a jettisoned air con. unit and various scraps of metal.
The freighter had clearly struck the reef at right angles
yet was supposed to have been travelling parallel to the reef.
Quite how the helmsman managed this is still under investigation
but the date of the incident, 31st December, may prove to
be significant. Russian divers are keen to discover what he
had been drinking so they can get some as well. Few divers
will have the opportunity to see this damage but its
in MY log book.
From
another less popular reef in Ras Mohamed I finally managed
to make out the outline of the prophets head which gave the
area its name. We saw the usual moray, barracuda, rays, turtles
etc but my very last dive we saw a rare feather tailed ray
and thats in my log book as well!
Yet another rare sight (or more correctly a sound) was that
of the underwater singing undertaker. A certain Cardiff based
undertaker, who shall remain anonymous, has taken to singing
through his regulator in an effort to improve his air consumption.
We (the other divers) were all rather puzzled as to where
the muffled tones of The men of Harlech were coming
from until we found out. What the fish thought of it I have
no idea but they had better get used to it because plans are
afoot for the first ever underwater welsh choir.

In the
second week we saw damage of a different kind. A few drops
of rain in the early evening soon turned into a monsoon with
tremendous lightening by nightfall. Egypt normally expects
half an hour shower of light rain per year and makes absolutely
no provision for any rainfall.
No gutters on buildings and no drainage in the roads. Most
buildings are flat roofed and not particularly sealed against
water. Within an hour Sharm and most of Cairo was awash. The
electricity supplies failed and the mobile phone networks
went down. Sharm airport was closed and flights diverted to
Cairo where the planes stayed for two days. In Cairo itself
buses were overturned by the flood waters. They even stopped
the dive boats operating for two days. The terminal at Sharm
airport was still closed when we left. This was definitely
not a shower!
Coral Hills, like most resorts, became a water park. Water
poured into the building through the ceiling lights and was
blown in under patio doors. The corridors became rivers and
the stairs became waterfalls. The swimming pools overflowed.
Large sections of the ceilings in the foyer and restaurant
fell to the floor. In many rooms the beds were soaked by water
pouring in from light fittings. We both spent the night together
in a single bed. The hotel staff were wonderful. They all
worked for 24 hours solid to sweep away the water and restore
the facilities.
Virtually everything was back to normal with a day or two.
It was the worst storm in fifteen years or living memory depending
on whom you asked - and - we were there! -but its not
in my logbook.
After all that excitement it would be nice to report an uneventful
return journey but I cant. The travel rep forgot to
arrange the transfer to the airport (complaint already written)
and the flight was delayed an hour. A strong headwind added
another hour -AND THEN - they closed Bristol Airport for runway
repairs. So they diverted us to Cardiff, bused us back to
Bristol to collect our car and we drove back home to Wales.
Thats not in my log book either. Sometimes diving in
West Wales looks a lot more attractive.
Finally
because Richy is organising a trip to Sharm here are some
tips for the Sharm virgins. They are based on
my experiences but other, more experienced divers may differ
so listen to them as well and make up your own mind.
- Watch
out for the luggage allowance when booking flights. Some
only allow only 15kg. Monarch and Thompson give an extra
5kg in a separate bag for divers if you produce your qualification
at check in. I get them to confirm this in an email and
take a copy with me just in case. If you need extra weight
allowance you can purchase it from the airline in advance
to avoid excess baggage charges. You can always hire some
or all the kit from the dive centre.
- I have
been told that, if possible, you should take your own regs
because you should know they have been serviced and are
in good order. They are the most important piece of your
kit.
- Generally,
I take a 3mm long john, boots, fins, BCD, regs, mask, smb,
reel and computer. I also take my Lidl weight
belt which although designed for shot weights will take
standard size solid lead weights in each pocket. It makes
for easier and quicker weight adjustment on the boat when
you do your buoyancy check. This January I found it a bit
cold for the optional third dive so hired another shortie
as an oversuit. I will also take my hood next time.
- Out
of interest I weighed all the kit. It came in at 13kg. My
Buddy BCD takes up all my extra 5 kg even with a lightweight
bag. Other BCDs are lighter.
- On
arrival at Sharm airport you will be asked to purchase an
entry visa at $15.They will accept £15 but dont
expect change. They also now ask you to complete a medical/health
form as well. You will also need to fill in an exit visa
when you leave but there is no cost for that.
THE
EXTRAS
- The
dive centre will provide transport to and from the boat
for you and your kit. They also provide your 12ltr air /
nitrox bottles. Nitrox and 15ltr bottles may extra.
- On
the boat water, coke, tea/coffee is provided together with
a lunch. There is normally a charge of 50LE (£5) for
this payable on the boat. There are toilets on board.
- Ras
Mohamed is a Marine Protected area and all divers have to
pay a levy 50LE for entry. This will be an extra payment
to the dive centre when you settle up.
- Dive
packages are normally based on two dives per day.Time permitting
the dive guide will normally offer an optional third dive
to those who want it. This will be an extra charge.
- Dives
to the Dunraven and the Thistlegorm will also attract an
extra charge because of the extra distance involved.
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Heart
Attack!
What Heart Attack?
Diving 9th August
What
a difference in two Sundays. On Sunday 2nd August I awoke
at 02:00am with pains across the chest.
I tried indigestion tablets but three hours later the pain
was still there and in fact getting worse so much so that
I woke Sandra (not a task to be undertaken lightly) and between
us she decided to take me into the casualty unit at the nearby
Royal Glamorgan Hospital by now, I was not only in
pain but sweating heavily, feeling faint and wondering who
would be first to claim my dive gear.
A very efficient nursing team coupled me to a machine, checked
my temperature, oxygen levels, and took blood samples (ouch).
I'm sure to this day it was only trapped wind, but as a precaution
I was admitted and given further tests.
Eventually the pain eased. I was released at 6:00pm after
a day filled with tests and tests and tests and finally a
visit from a consultant who told me if I was still feeling
bad I was to remain in hospital. It's funny how you feel so
much better when someone gives you this option.
That
day, I was supposed to be on duty at the Big Bite and am grateful
to Richie Grice and Allan and Owain Jenkins for covering for
me. So, life goes on thankfully, and though it took
me all week to recover and I'm still due to go for
a treadmill test I'm trying to live as normal which
of course meant that on the following Sunday 9th August I
was ready with my dive gear and at Monty's by 08:45.
There
were nine of us. Jeff was dive marshal; he decided to use
both boats; that we would launch from Gelliswick and dive
around Skokholm Island. The logistics of two boats and one
tow vehicle were overcome by teamwork and in minimum time
we were underway, through the jetties and out into the Haven
proper. The weather was perfect with light winds and sunny
skies but the sea around St. Anne's Head was still affected
by previous spells of bad weather. Big swells made for slow
progress until we cleared the Haven and were able to open
up the throttles and power across the bay.
Club
members had been diving around Skokholm on both Friday and
Saturday; they reported good visibility and plenty of marine
life. Indeed we saw some seals as we approached the island,
they were basking in the sunshine and completely oblivious
to our presence even when we took the ribs close to the rocks.
The water temperature was a heady 16.0c and in what must have
been at least six metres of viz I had a very pleasant first
dive with Chris the Kiwi. Despite Chris being slightly under-weighted
and lumbered with a camera we managed to stay together and
spent 45 minutes at depths up to 20 metres observing all types
of aquatic life and trying to persuade bored looking lobsters,
crabs and prawns to pose for a picture.
Our second dive didn't go so well. We descended into thick
kelp and in trying to find a way out, we separated. The current
had by this time strengthened making conditions difficult.
Back on board the rib Chris was cursing; whilst de-kitting
he'd donated his weight-belt to Neptune.
The trip
back was smoother and despite losing Gareth's hat and turning
back to retrieve it, we were soon at Gelliswick. We'd had
a cracking day, the viz had been so good that even Crabhook
John excelled himself by managing to stay with his buddy for
a whole dive.
Phil
Gillett had been feeling 'crook'; he blamed it on fumes from
the engine but admitted to a few pints the previous night.
Gareth dived with Jeff and added two more descents in his
log-book. Alan managed a couple of decent dives at the end
of his week's holiday; he's back as Store Manager at Asda
Llanelli first thing Monday.
Owain had a bad back, we suspected we knew why but because
his father was sat by him, he couldn't reveal the cause. Dai
Flip-Flop wasn't too pleased with the kelp but still seemed
to enjoy his diving. Chris will need to use some creative
accountancy to hide the cost of a new weight-belt from the
wife.
And me; well apart from being glad to be alive I'd really
enjoyed my day, good weather, good diving, good company and
the prospect of a couple of pints to follow, what more can
you ask for?
PHIL. THE POST
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Just
Another Dive Day
Sunday 5th July 2009
9.00.
Montys: Despite a brisk (for brisk, read blowing a hooly)
southerly wind and a dramatic drop in air temperatures, six
hardy souls turn up at Montys to support the D. O. on
this his first ( for this season anyway) stint at Dive Marshalling.
A boat has been prepared but where to launch from? Following
deliberations that would not have been out of place on Who
Wants To Be A Millionaire the D.O. asks the audience who respond
with 66% Broadhaven, 24% Gelliswick, 10% dont know (don't
care).
10.30. ( why the time gap?-dont even bother to
ask) Broadhaven car park: boat loaded, divers suited and booted,
fuel organised, Martins flask filled with hot water,
knots checked and triple checked. The D. O. gladly hands over
dive marshalling to the secretary. His dry suit, which he
keeps in his garage, has been attacked by mice over the winter
and has more holes than a colander so he cant
go. (Peter, you should really come out more often). The secretary
isnt keen to launch from Broadhaven, but as hes
not known for decision making, unless theres a drink
involved, he opts to proceed with plan A.
11.00.
Broadhaven Beach: The sand is deserted apart from one or two
people with packs of rabid dogs and some suicidal canoeists.
Its almost low tide; the breakers are up to two metres
(six feet in real money) and coming in three at a time. We
roll the trailer into the surf and manhandle the boat to face
the waves. Four divers struggle aboard, Martin takes the helm,
the boat is almost vertical as the engine (when it finally
fires) struggles to cope through giant surf, Philthepost and
Peter Swarfield (ex product development executive from the
Del Ray) watch them clear the waves then recover the trailer
and drive off the beach to park up.
11 15. Lima 1 can be seen beyond the waves. Phil and
Peter ( yes, drysuits zipped up, weve all been there)
struggle through the waves until their hats begin to float.
Lima 1 stays put. Phil and Peter wait about in the surf until
Peter is heard to say Theres summat wrong out
there, theyre all crowded around the engine.
Glug, You cant say much else with ten tons
of sandy seawater down your gullet Phil clears his airway
before assessing the situation then makes his way up the beach
to the Lifeguards hut where he reports that Lima 1 appears
to be having engine problems.
12.00. A lifeguard rides out on his surf ski Hawaiian
style, through the breakers, finally reaching Lima 1. A problem
with the engine is identified and the inshore lifeboat is
summonsed to assist. Phil stays with the other lifeguard,
Peter Swarfield waits chest deep in the surf.
12.30.
The inshore lifeboat comes out of Littlehaven, attaches a
tow to Lima 1 and proceeds to seek shelter. Meanwhile Gatchie,
Billy and Peter turn up at the lifeboat station; theyve
been contacted by Martin on his mobile phone. Their reaction,
whats the problem, they could have drifted in
from there is answered with some well chosen expletives
from Phil.
13.30. Dai Flip Flop and Gareth Henderson (yes, there
was one sensible member in the party) plus the dive kit are
delivered to the beach by the lifeboat crew. Martin and John
Evans are taken into Littlehaven. We make our way there to
join them The lifeboat coxswain very kindly offers to recover
Lima 1 when the surf drops back. He promises to return with
a crew at 15.30.
14.00. till 15 30. The dive party can be seen frolicking
like kids in the waves. Its absolutely pissing down,
the sky is black and theyre the only ones daft enough
to be out and about, everyone else, except Dai Flip Flops
missus who is sheltering under the little bridge with their
dog, is making merry in the local hostelries.
15 30. True to their word the lifeboat crew turn up
complete with rib and launch in the haven. Within half an
hour they return with Lima 1 in tow, we cant thank them
enough. (a donation to the RNLI was authorised at the next
meeting along with a more tangible thank you for the local
crew). The surf is almost non- existent, we recover our boat
and make for Montys.
17
30. The boat is washed down and covered up and the equipment
stored in the cupboard. We laugh and joke but are aware how
serious the incident could have been and how grateful we are
to the RNLI.
Billy will look at the engine and fix the fault, (where would
we be without him?) Phil has calmed down and after ranting
on about launching from bloody Broad Haven he relents and
accepts it opens the door to better dive sites.
Peter Swarfield is grateful he wasnt on the boat as
hes sure they would have been sick as a dog. John (Crabhook)
Evans is for once going home empty handed but at least his
tanks are filled for next week.
Martin has greased the winch (and anything else that stops
still for two minutes).
Dai Flip Flop resolves to have a shed load of beer tonight,
a move that has the full backing of the club secretary who
intends doing the same.
We all head for home. On the way I think back. It seemed wed
had a wasted day and when you only get one day a week off
work that hurts, ouch!! But on reflection it was just another
learning curve.
Shit happens, its how you handle events that matters.
We got into a situation and made the right decisions to resolve
it. At the end of the day we all returned safe and sound.
The boat was recovered as was all the kit. Club diving is
all about team work and being a member of that team is what
makes for a good day. Yes, were there to dive, but getting
on well together, having a laugh, tolerating each others weaknesses
or idiosyncrasies and being on hand to help out when needed
makes us want to come back for more.
See you
next week.
PHIL. THE POST
A Post
Script by Martin Sanders (AKA Captain Sensible)
Due to an engine breakdown I called out the RNLI to tow the
boat initially to a safe anchorage, and then to shore for
recovery. The options for other recovery were limited as no
one else was in the bay at the time.
As the breeze was southerly, allowing the boat to drift to
shore was not an option. (There were rocks that way!)
As soon as it became apparent we had a problem the anchor
was deployed, mainly to maintain the boat into the wind, though
it did appear to be holding OK.
We spent maybe an hour working on the problem before calling
for help. I'm not sure of the exact time.
I look forward to the barbed comments at the next club meeting!
A
further comment by the DO.
When I
discovered that mice had attacked my dry suit and chewed several
big holes in it rendering it useless, my initial reaction
was to seek revenge by putting down mouse traps and killing
off the culprits. However, when I saw what happened to the
others I was really glad that I wasn't on the boat. If the
mice hadn't destroyed my dry suit I would have been. So I
am very grateful to the little beasties and I have decided
to give them a reprieve.
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RED
SEA DIVING
Coraya Divers - Marsa Alam
June 10th to 24th 2009
Divers
on the whole arent shy about their sport and take every
opportunity to tell the world that THEYRE GOING DIVING.
At the gate for flight TOM38 to Marsa Alam we saw plenty of
hand luggage emblazoned with big brand dive names, Mares,
Scubapro, Northern Diver, etc.
There
were several passengers wearing tee shirts that stretched
over big bellies and carried bold messages; Dive Thailand,
Dive Maldives and Dive Red Sea, even Dive Cocos Island (Guess
who?).
Other people perhaps less inclined to brag about their travels
wore shirts with quirky dive slogans like Dive Now Work Later
(I like that one), Dive In A Wet Beaver (didnt quite
get that) and there were several PADI Dive Masters and PADI
Instructors in evidence. Well, thats what it said on
their fleeces and jackets and who was I to argue?
We
divers like this show of identity, it gives us an opportunity
to communicate, a series of nods and winks, a half smile and
maybe an opening for a conversation.
However, there were not many UK divers at the Coraya Dive
Centre and although most people there spoke reasonable English
I didnt speak their languages making conversation a
rather one sided affair.
Sandra
(my wife) and I stayed at Lamaya Resort, one of four hotels
situated around the bay of Marsa Umm Gerfait and about ten
minutes travel from the airport.
The Lamaya is rated "5T" by travel company Thomson
and the facilities here are excellent. Our accommodation had
two large rooms plus a bathroom and a balcony with views across
the bay. Air conditioning, satellite TV and a fridge full
of drinks added to the comfort.
Our
all inclusive package included all meals and drinks. The beer
was a little bit gassy for my taste but hey! When its
free
. There are three swimming pools and plenty of sun
loungers.
Entertainment was provided by an enthusiastic if somewhat
amateurish young animation team who worked hard from 10am
till almost midnight trying to get guests involved. Sometimes
this was a little bit too much like Hi-De-Hi for my liking.
Even though the food, presented buffet style, was very good,
the cavernous restaurant was noisy. At times it felt like
being in a posh works canteen making leisurely eating
not an easy option.
Coraya
Divers, an independent dive centre, was a mere 5 minutes walk
from our room. The reception staff remembered me from previous
visits and greeted me by name before allocating a locker and
checking my plastic. (they keep your cards for inspection
by the tourism police).
Later I took the opportunity to meet up with the dive guides
most of whom were at the centre when I visited last year.
I needed to re-acquaint myself with the facilities. The lockers
had been re-situated and a new comfy area created. Here amongst
big cushions and colourful throws folk can relax, fill in
their log books, have a coffee or a soft drink, read up about
marine life or watch DVDs of trips to Elphinstone, Port Galib
and other dive sites, its a dive anoraks paradise
and believe me there were more than a few of them!!
This
was my first visit to Coraya without the company of a dive
buddy. I was a little unsure of how Id cope.
On day one I elected to join a group who were planning to
dive a site to the north of the resort. Our young Egyptian
dive guide gave the briefing (perfect English), we kitted
up; suits, BCDs and regs, and made our way to the jetty. This
is the starting point for all local diving. Here a friendly
and efficient team are on hand to assist with air cylinders,
nitrox for those qualified, and weights.
The centre has three RIBs, two big ones with powerful twin
engines, these are used to ferry divers to sites north and
south of the bay. The third rib, a smaller boat is used to
drop divers along the reef edge allowing a pleasant dive to
depths of up to 30 metres where you can drift in a gentle
current back to the jetty.
On
that first dive I saw moray eels, spotted rays, lion fish,
and a host of colourful reef fish. Visibility was at least
30 metres and with water temperatures around 27C we drifted
along the reef face for an hour before surfacing.
Over the two weeks I dived on sites to the North and South
from the large ribs and used the small rib to explore the
reef within the bay.
I
had no trouble finding a buddy and dived with a number of
different people including a fireman from Luton and an engineer
from Sheffield.
I did 14 dives and as well as the usual marine inhabitants
saw octopus, sole, turtles, dolphins, barracuda and crocodile
fish, in fact Im sure there was a greater variety of
fish to see than on my last visit.
This
time there were a lot of jelly fish in the water and I wondered
if more fish had been attracted by this feeding opportunity?
In between dives Sandra and I went snorkelling.
We entered the water from the snorkelling jetty which goes
to the edge of the reef. Here the wall drops to 25metres but
along the reef top there are all types of marine life all
easy to spot in clear warm water. Some fish were so tame they
swam right up to our masks.
All
in all we had a good holiday. Of course I suffered (as usual)
with the Pharaohs Revenge. Following past visits to
Egypt Id sought prior advice and been told to drink
plenty of water and stay away from the alcohol.
This worked for the first few days but then in a moment of
weakness I downed a few ales followed by a shed load of rum
and coke. The following morning I suffered and boy
did I suffer. Imodium!! Forget it. Sandra went to a local
pharmacy with a fistful of Egyptian wonga and came back with
some dubious looking yellow capsules, some white tablets and
some re-hydration powders. I followed the instructions and
thankfully they did the trick. I was more cautious for the
rest of the holiday.
We
booked the holiday on-line with Thomson Travel and were aware
from the outset that we were each allowed 23kg of luggage.
There was an option to increase this by 5kg at a cost of £17.50.
This is a small price to pay and avoids un-necessary stress
and arguments at check-in.
I paid for the increased allowance for myself and we packed
all the heavy gear including two wetsuits and two sets of
fins into my case. We also pre-booked an in-flight meal at
an extra cost of £6.00 each. The food supplied, a starter,
a chicken meal on the way out and sausage and mash on the
way back, + a dessert, was standard aircraft nosh, Im
sure you know what I mean. Tea and coffee came free but we
had to pay for the wine.
Thomsons
have introduced a facility where you can check-in the evening
previous to your morning flight so we travelled to Gatwick
a day early and after checking in our luggage (no queue) made
our way to Horley where we spent a comfortable night at the
Lawn Guest House.
Our flight was 10:30am. We booked a taxi for 9:00am and were
in the departure lounge in plenty of time to do some last
minute shopping prior to take-off. Leg room on these flights
is still a problem (First Choice the operators, classify
this "five hours plus" flight as short haul and
cram the passengers in) especially if youre tall but
the stewards were very good and used what free seats there
were to try to accommodate people.
On
the return trip we were pleasantly surprised at improvements
made to the airport at Marsa Alam. Members who know this airport
from previous club trips to the area will remember how spartan
the facilities used to be, but not any more.
Now there are plenty of comfy seats and a variety of shops.
Theres even a Kentucky Fried Chicken counter and a Pizza
Hut. Thankfully
in our case both out-going and in-coming flights were on time
but should a delay occur as has been our previous experience,
conditions are much improved.
And
to end, just a word of warning: At the duty free shop they
only take American dollars. On the resort and in the dive
centre all the prices were quoted in Euros.
I took Egyptian pounds. They will take local currency but
I lost out on the conversions. I wont bore you with
facts about Marsa Alam; information about the area and Hotel
facilities are well documented in past reports.
If you are considering a visit to the area, you can read up
about the diving at www.coraya-divers.com
or drop them an e-mail, info@coraya-divers.com
PHIL.
THE POST
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Sub-Aqua
Association
2009 Annual General Meeting

The
four Llantrisant delegates at the AGM
This years
AGM was held on Saturday 14th March at the Buxton Palace Hotel,
Buxton. The meeting started at 10-30am which meant us leaving
South Wales at 06-30am. Our journey took us north to Stafford
where we left the motorway to travel through towns and villages
and some stunning countryside. We reached our destinations
with just minutes to spare.
At
the meeting there were thirty five clubs represented. Mike
Burley, Chairman opened proceedings by introducing members
of the National Executive and commenting on the recently announced
resignations.
A
number of ordinary resolutions were then put to a vote. All
were passed un-opposed. Falling member numbers was a cause
for concern. The special resolution relating to Direct Membership
caused much comment from the floor. Issues such as Diving
Officer involvement, insurance, potential loss of members
to the clubs, the lack of an alternative plan and other concerns
were voiced by members.
Llantrisant Sub-Aqua has a thriving membership. We told the
Executive of our success in promoting the Club and encouraging
new members. We explained that we have a varied programme
that includes regular diving around the Pembrokeshire coastline,
overseas trips and a number of social events. We have good
web-site that is both informative and up to date and our Officers
encourage new members. We queried whether the SAA do enough
to encourage member clubs to promote themselves within their
communities? Perhaps this should be plan A.
Following
a coffee break the meeting re-convened and the Chairman asked
member clubs to vote. On a show of hands and including postal
votes, the special resolution failed to get the 75% majority
needed and was rejected.
The
meeting ended with a variety of awards to individuals and
clubs. These were presented by Executive Member John Gough.
This was followed by a power-point presentation given by new
Executive Member Mark Durham. Mark has re-designed the SAA
web-site. He showed members the new facilities which included
club information for prospective members, downloads and a
members page. The graphics are illustrations of coldwater
diving. Despite difficulties with connections, Mark managed
to access enough from the site to show members the improvements
he has made.
Just
before lunch we spoke with the National Diving Officer. We
put to Steve Love our concerns about the lack of suitable
courses. Steve took our points on board. We also spoke with
the new National Training Officer and made him aware that
our club needed more open water instructors and that South
Wales was short of Regional Instructors.
These
events are useful for networking and before we left we took
the opportunity to re-acquaint ourselves with both head office
staff and members from other clubs. We arrived back in South
Wales at 17-00. It had been a long day but we all agreed
D.O. Peter Rees, T.O. Richie Grice, Marine Conservation Officer
Ceri Jones, and yours truly, that it had been a day well spent.
Wed helped to conduct the business of the S.A.A. whilst
at the same time managing to put a lot of names to faces and
making some very useful contacts. I just hope that next years
AGM is a little closer to home.
PHIL
THE POST
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Llantrisant
Sub-Aqua Club presents:
VIVA LAS VEGAS!
an evening of superb entertainment
Friday
16th January 2009
7.30pm
Taffs Well Rugby Club
You
can hear the girls declare, he must be a millionaire.
You can hear them sigh and wish to die
You can see them wink the other eye
At the man who broke the bank in Monte Carlo
And last
Friday night to anyone watching club president Viv Griffiths
playing the roulette tables at Llantrisant Sub Aqua Clubs
Las Vegas event, the words of this old music hall favourite
had a ring of truth. Looking quite the part in an immaculate
dinner suit and bow tie, Griff had a string of big wins that
had the croupier on more than one occasion, sending out for
extra chips. The biggest winner on the night though was Llantrisant
Sub-Aqua, where ticket sales, a raffle and of course the legendary
auction at the end of the evening all contributed to net almost
£500 for the club.
Venue
for the night was Taffs Well rugby club whose committee not
only allowed us to use their functions room, but organised
the bar to include a barrel of real ale
Wadswoth 6X.
Entertainment was provided by Rockin Dave Riley who kept the
dance floor full until the early hours with a non stop selection
of music from the 50s, 60s and 70s.
And the
buffet was to die for. Elaine, partner to Lyn Eade our hard
working entertainments officer, must have been baking for
days. There was just about every savoury imaginable, pasties,
sausages, chicken legs, sausage rolls, sandwiches, the list
goes on and on; there was even a plate of black pudding, and
if this wasnt enough there was crisps, nuts, olives,
pickles and more dips than enough, and yes, there was plenty
of goodies for the veggies amongst us. This feast was set
out along one wall and I was not alone to re-visit the tables
on more than one occasion. Elaine,
it was wonderful and we can't thank you enough!
Business
on the gambling tables was brisk. As well as the roulette
where El Presidento was doing his own version of spread betting,
there was black jack and the atmosphere was tense as Big
Paul The Gas dealt the cards with the air of a professional.
On the other table Richie Training was a convincing
double for Maverick
until the 6X finally got the better
of him.
The job
of selling the raffle tickets was delegated to Vanda who managed
to charm wads of dosh off all the fellas in the room
and the bar
and God knows where else because she came
back with a pint glass literally stuffed with tenners.
A big thankyou to Vanda!
The auction
at the end of the evening was an opportunity to spend those
hard earned chips. Lyn had been shopping and there was a raft
of quality goods to bid for. Auctioneer for the event our
much slimmed down D.O. Peter Rees took the microphone and
controlled the bidding which was at times quite frantic. One
by one the items were knocked down to the highest bidder and
some of you must have woken up the morning after to ask yourselves
Where the hell did I get that pedal bin/ radio alarm/
set of ankle weights/painting/digital tuner? But it was all
for a good cause and raised lots of cash.
Lyn is
stepping down from the post of Entertainments Officer. This
is his third Las Vegas night; theyve all been successful,
theyve all been enjoyed by those whove attended
and theyve all made money for the club. He organises
the events and with his partner Elaine does all the hard work
that makes for such a marvellous evening. Lyn, we cant
thank you enough for what youve done for the club and
we look forward to your reports as the clubs next Marine
Conservation Officer. Entertainment Officer for 2009 is Emma
Reece (see I can spell your name right) and we wish Emma every
success in her new role.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Ramsay
Island and The Hen & Chicks
August 24th 2008
With
light winds and calm seas forecast, we journeyed across St.
Brides bay to Ramsay. This craggy offshore island has
cliffs up to 120 metres high and numerous caves around the
shoreline.
Here, gannets dive spectacularly and there are numerous other
sea birds to spot. Theres also a resident colony of
grey seals and we spent time watching as they played around
the rocks coming closer and closer to our boat.
There
are regular boat trips around the island from nearby St Justinian,
so the seals are quite used to seeing visitors. The diving
here can be quite spectacular but today conditions were murky
and underwater visibility practically nil.
Our dive lasted just twenty minutes when I lost sight of my
buddy amongst the kelp and made my way to the surface. He
surfaced just after me. Other members of the team had similar
experiences so we decided to try a different venue, and made
our way over to the hen and chicks, a rocky outcrop 2 miles
out of Little Haven.
Here
conditions were much better and with underwater visibility
around three or four metres and a water temperature of 17c
we spent almost an hour in and around the rocks and canyons.
There was plenty of marine life to see including spider crabs,
velvet crabs lobsters, an array of colourful anemones
and a big shoal of trigger fish.
These visitors to British waters are residents of the Mediterranean
but have been regularly spotted by divers and fishermen at
this time of year around the Pembrokeshire coastline.
It
is usual to see trigger fish wedged in crevices in the rocks;
they have the ability to lock their dorsal fin thus securing
their position then unlock by depressing the second spine
the trigger, but today they were out in numbers, swimming
around, almost as though we werent there.
Back on board we discussed our day. Everyone had seen the
triggers and there would be some good photos to show friends
back home. Our party included three novices, this was their
opportunity to practice skills learnt over many weeks of pool
training and gain the experience needed to become qualified
divers; they all did well.
PHIL.
THE POST
Some
Photos
by Martin Sanders
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Oxygen
Administration Course
On
Sunday 6th July, several club members attended a Sub Aqua
Association course on resuscitation and how to administer
oxygen.
The venue, the Tynant Inn, Morganstown was the same one we
had used for the recent nitrox course. It's a convenient location
with good parking and the first floor conference room is ideal
for training purposes.
With
our beloved leader and D.O. Peter Rees on holiday (yes, again!)
in Beijing, we were fortunate to secure the services of regional
instructors Mike Rose and Steve Jakeways.
The first session of the morning saw Mike take us through
a power-point presentation on the types of dive related incidents
where oxygen admin is beneficial.
After a break for coffee, there was a talk on the type of
cylinders used including the unique two pin connections and
practical guidance on storage and precautions to be taken
when using oxygen.
This
was followed by a practical demonstration on how to connect
the hoses and masks to the cylinders, after which we were
all allowed to 'have a go'.
Lunch was served from the extensive range of food available
on the hotel menu, and apart from a mix up over what had been
ordered resulting in Peter Swarfield almost going without,
all went smoothly.
After lunch it was time for Steve to show us how to deal with
casualties. He talked us
through various situations, dealing with conscious and unconscious
persons and what to do if the casualty is not breathing.
Then he introduced us to 'Annie' or in this case, several
'Annies'. The mannequins provided for the day from the organisation
Heart-Start were used to demonstrate the techniques involved
in applying CPR.
I have been on several first aid courses including one not
too long ago, but it's amazing how quickly methods change;
CPR now involves 30 chest compressions followed by two mouth
to mouth breaths.
Later,
during a recap, Mike went over the salient points covered
throughout the day and he finished the session by asking if
anyone had any questions.
We broke once more for coffee then it was time for the dreaded
test 50 questions not multi-choice mind, proper
written answers were required from all the material covered
through the day.
We
were allowed an hour, during which time there were several
vague expressions and lots of anxious scribbling.
Finally we were allowed to retire to the bar for a well deserved
pint of Bass whilst Mark and Steve marked our papers. When
we returned we were told that we'd all passed phew!
It had been a long day, but very interesting and very rewarding.
My
thanks go out to Mike and Steve for giving up their day and
presenting their material in a most professional manner.
I must also thank Dave Pring, SAA Regional Representative
who not only organised the course, but also came along to
be 'one of us' for the day, Dave, you really should consider
joining a proper club like ours.
And
finally I must mention our D.O. Peter Rees whose hard work
in forging links with the SAA have resulted in firstly the
recent nitrox course, then this Oxy admin course and the forthcoming
boat handling course to be held in August.
Hopefully other courses will follow and I urge all club members
to make the effort to attend what you learn may be
a life saver!
PHIL.
THE POST
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The
Coraya Beach - Marsa Alam
June 4th to 11th

For
the full story
Click HERE
This
is a copy of an entry made by Phil on the Trip
Advisor web site:-
We
have just returned from a week's holiday at the Coraya Beach
Hotel. This was our second visit to Marsa Alam, in October
2007 we stayed at the Lamaya Hotel, part of the same group
of hotels, Iberotel. The Coraya Beach is within the same complex,
and is just a 10 minute drive from the airport; a definite
bonus after a long flight from Gatwick.
We booked the holiday on-line through Thompson's; the process
was user friendly and the documentation sent to us was easy
to follow and full of useful tips on how to enjoy our holiday.
On landing at Marsa Alam we were met by representatives of
the travel company and taken by coach to the Hotel. Check
-In was quick and efficient; we left our cases by the Hotel
entrance and they were taken to our room by the hotel staff.
Accommodation is in blocks built in traditional Nubian style;
ours was on the third floor which meant climbing 40 steps.
It was worth it however if only for the view which took in
the three scenic swimming pools, the hotel buildings, the
sea and the desert.
The room had a double bed, a dressing table and a large wardrobe
which also contained a small safe to store valuables. We made
a request for extra pillows and was pleasantly surprised at
being offered a choice of hard soft or medium! we asked for
two soft pillows; they were delivered within minutes. The
air conditioning was efficient and not too noisy. There's
a mini- bar (all chargeable if you're half board), a kettle
and all that's needed for your early morning cuppa and a television
though visitors from the UK be warned, the only English speaking
channel we could access was the BBC world service. (but who
comes to Egypt to watch the telly?) The bathroom contained
a toilet and a shower and a hair drier. Ali, our room boy,
was very friendly and extremely hard working. He visited daily
to clean and keep us supplied with fresh linen and towels.
Electricity is 220 volts and two pin plugs; don't forget your
adapter.
The main restaurant is a large airy room staffed by a very
efficient and friendly team of chefs and waiters. We were
very impressed with the choice and variety of food available
and had no complaints about the cleanliness or service from
the waiters who were always on hand to supply drinks on request.
There is also an a la carte restaurant, a snack bar and a
beach bar where sandwiches are available but the food was
so good and plentiful in the main restaurant that we only
visited the snack bar once.
In the evening we would visit the Night and Day bar to enjoy
a cocktail and listen to the 'easy' music. There is a wide
choice of other bars each with their own attractions. Bar
and table staff were friendly attentive and polite and have
the ability to greet and speak to guests in a number of languages.
If like myself you like scuba diving, there is an excellent
dive centre which is situated across the bay. For those who
just like to snorkel, there is a terrific variety of marine
life and beautiful corals to view in crystal clear waters
just yards off the hotel beach. There's no shortage of things
to do and we were amazed at the energy of the young animation
team led by Max who worked hard to entertain guests throughout
the day and well into the night.
We found little to complain about (which is very unusual for
Phil), but I must make comment on the Thompson Rep, Mark.
The fat bastard invited us to a welcome meeting on our first
day and after telling us that the presentation would only
take about twenty minutes, he went on to bore us for almost
an hour in a stuffy room without air conditioning. He explained
in detail the facilities available to guests who'd booked
on an all inclusive basis but gave very little info to those
of us who had booked in half board, it was as if we didn't
exist. I found this 'welcome' meeting to be of little use
to me.
Mark
did however give info on how to avoid stomach upsets - a common
illness with visitors to Egypt, and advised us to "go
and see him if you were suffering". The following day
I was, and I did. Mark advised a visit to a pharmacy, telling
me how to get there on foot, however, he failed to tell me
it was literally miles from the Hotel in blistering heat.
Also, a trip we took into the desert by camel which we booked
through Mark was somewhat disappointing as our 'guide' spoke
little English and was as much use as a chocolate teapot when
it came to answering questions.
All in all, a good holiday though next time I'd check out
the difference in price between half board and all inclusive.
Due to my dodgy stomach I avoided alcohol all week; the cocktails
my wife had cost us 65 Egyptian pounds each (they were supposed
to be made from named brand spirits but I very much doubt
that they were) and water cost us 15 EP per bottle so it would
be easy to run up a big bill. (the exchage rate was £1
= 10LE).
Would I go back? I liked the Hotel and the scuba diving is
amongst the best in the world, but I suffered with a bad stomach
through the week. My wife suffered as well though not for
so long and not so bad; other people I spoke to (including
those who had stayed at other hotels) had been affected with
diarrhoea at some time during their stay. It seems almost
un-avoidable. If there's anyone out there with any advice
that will prevent stomach upsets on future trips to Egypt,
I'd be most grateful.
PHIL. THE POST
For
advice on Travellers' Diarrhoea
go to the Travel Doctor web site!!
www.traveldoctor.co.uk
Diarrhoea is quite common amongst travellers to Egypt. Commonly
known as the "Cairo Quick Step" it is usually quite
mild, normally lasting for around 24 to 48 hours, but in a
few cases a bit longer. It can easily be treated by taking
imodium (loperamide) and oral rehydration solution (dioralyte,
etc.).
However, sometimes more serious forms of food poisoning can
be contracted such as acute gastro-enteritis which is characterised
by headaches, a feeling of malaise together with bouts of
diarrhoea and vomitting. Fortunately this usually subsides
within 24 hours. Another more prolonged illness also exists
and can last for several days even up to a week. In this case
500mg Ciprofloxacin twice a day for 3 days should clear it
up. Remember to take plenty of fluids too.
Besides taking all the usual hygeine precautions, a course
of Pro-Biotics prior to travel can be taken to boost the body's
immunity to stomach bugs. This would be of particular use
to people who seem to be prone to getting stomach upsets.
The Travel Doctor
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London
Dive Show
Sunday 9th March 2008
"Me
and Gatchie didn't come down this way", the advice from
the back seat was sound but I carried on in the wrong direction
regardless; thank goodness we were nearly there. M4
M11 A113. Sound simple? Well it was really, it's just
a bloody long way from South Wales and I managed to pick the
most awkward route to the Excel Centre. Eventually though
we saw the signposts and followed the road into London's dock
land. Parking our car in a multi storey cost £10 for
5 hours but the place looked reasonably secure and it was
only a short walk to the Excel centre and the exhibition halls.
Once
inside, all the familiar names were on show: AP valves, Mares,
Northern Diver and many more. The stalls were loaded with
all the latest in dive gear and manned by friendly, helpful
staff. Peter wanted to visit the Maldives Scuba Tours stand
so we made this our first stop and whilst he was renewing
acquaintances with the staff, I spent a pleasant five minutes
watching a video of manta ray, whale shark and coral reefs.
Gazing at this paradise took me back to December when I was
there in the flesh experiencing the sights first hand
happy days!
I
wanted to look for a new dry suit and boy, was I spoilt for
choice. We walked around and eventually stopped at the Beaver
stand (it's all in the mind - honest) where I managed to find
a suit to fit and not a bad price either!
The
day passed quickly. We collected carrier bags like they were
going out of fashion so much for global warming
and stuffed them full of brochures, leaflets and the odd freebie.
Along the way we bought strobes, knives, torches, dry-bags,
gloves and other bits and pieces that will make a day's diving
easier and safer. It didn't take long to spend a shed load
of dosh, so we were grateful for a coffee break and even at
£1.60 a cup and £3 for a Cornish pasty, it was
worth it to take the weight off our feet for a while.
Later
in the day Chris had a go with a re-breather and was mighty
impressed, Martin bandied words with a German guy on a camera
stall and Peter had a really useful conversation with the
people on the SAA stand, then all too soon it was time to
leave. We carried our loaded carriers to the car and set off.
Leaving dock lands wasn't so easy but thanks to the guys where
we stopped for petrol we were soon on the right road.
"Me
and Gatchie didn't use this route." I was just about
to reply with something sarcastic but when I looked in the
rear view mirror the offender was eyes closed head lolled
and the only sound was a rhythmic snore. It had been a long
day. It's a long way to come and it seemed even longer going
home because I ignored the directions coming from the back
seat as I headed towards Dartford in exactly the wrong direction
but we'd enjoyed the experience, made some useful contacts
especially with the SAA and bought plenty of gear. And now
I can't wait for the start of the season to try my new dry
suit.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Las
Vegas Night
Friday 18th January 2008
For all
those members who didnt attend the clubs Las Vegas
night held recently at the Taffs Well Rugby Club, I have this
message.
You
missed a very good night!
The venue
was ideal. The club let us use their upstairs premises, a
lovely big room with a stage, a dance floor and of course
a bar.
Entertainment
was provided by Rocking Dave, a larger than life
character who sang along to a selection of well known tunes
from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Dave was very good; he could sing
almost any song requested and he invoked many memories with
hits from Cliff Richards, The Platters, Dean Martin, and even
Cilla Black. I wondered at one time during the evening whether
there was too much nostalgia for our younger members, who,
fair play, had turned up in droves to support the event, but
judging by the energy they put into their activity on the
dance floor, they enjoyed Rocking Dave as much
as us old uns.
The
buffet was superb theres no other word to describe
it. Lyns partner Elaine must have been up all the previous
night preparing the food. There was so much variety and everything
was so well presented and so delicious I went back
at least three times and I wasnt the only one. A
big thank you to Elaine.
Strictly
for fun only the roulette wheel manned by Lyns
guest for the evening, Keith gave members a chance to win
chips which could be used to bid at the auction to be held
later. There were those who knew how and those who hadnt
played before. I couldnt tell you who came off best,
but judging by the crowd around the table and the wry smiles
even the losers seem to enjoy having a flutter.
And big Paul Morgan was in his element in charge
of the Black Jack table. He had a willing audience even after
Rocking Dave started his second session. I must mention
also, the initiative of Paul Markwell who on being given the
job of selling the raffle tickets, devised a spiel so good
that he abstracted a minimum of £3 from every purchaser.
He was so good he even had me convinced Id had a good
deal!
The night
ended with an auction and Peter Rees did a superb job as auctioneer
in separating members from their hard won chips in exchange
for a range of useful household items.
The
event not only raised much needed funds for the club but it
gave members an opportunity to socialise, get to know one
another away from boats and salt water and neoprene suits.
A big thank you to Entertainments Officer Lyn Eade and his
partner Elaine for organising the event, selling the tickets,
and generally seeing that everybody had a very good time.
Lyn, you did a bloody good job, and Elaine, that buffet was
to die for! Thank You, and I cant wait for your next
event.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Club
Diving
Sunday
9th September 2007
by
Phil the Post
John Evans
can list amongst his life experiences, teaching, caving ,
rambling, and world travelling. Hes also a good scuba
diver and was originally with a Cardiff club but is now a
well established member of LSAC. His standing within the club
is renowned, but despite this he is amongst the first to offer
words of encouragement to new club members during their initial
West Wales diving ventures. Some say this is because he is
always on the look-out for recruits to help him on and off
with his dive gear, a spaghetti of straps, hoses and dubious
bits of equipment, all colour coded, but requiring a person
with a degree in logistics to decide on the order of unbuckling
so as to avoid consigning the lot, to the depths.
Johns
dry-suit has always leaked and I mean really let in
the wet stuff. This is in spite of his efforts to find a solution
to the problem. On Sunday last, as we sat in the café
behind West Wales Divers, enjoying our bacon and egg butties
and mugs of tea, John came in and announced he had finally
solved the problem
by getting a replacement suit. Not
a new one mind. He had been rummaging in the attic and unearthed
a suit belonging to his son. It fits perfectly and the
seals feel brand new. He told the assembled audience.
There
were eventually eight of us. Paul Gray, dive marshal, decided
that we would use one boat, and that launching from Broadhaven
would allow access to Skomer Island.
We
parked in the back car park and loaded the equipment then
struggled into our suits. What do you think then?
John stood there in said suit black and shocking pink.
We were speechless but at least wed have less
chance of losing him on a crowded beach!
Launching
was a doddle and within thirty minutes we were moored to the
visitors buoy in Skomer haven. Buddy teams were decided
I was to dive with Martin and Mike Rees and
we motored slowly to the north wall, before dropping into
twenty metres of water. Visibility was very good 8+
metres and we did the drop off, seeing lots of marine life
including big pink fans and some lovely anemones. Our dive
lasted 40 minutes. John and Club President Viv Griff did the
same dive whilst Max, Richie and Paul dived on the Lucy. All
reported excellent viz and enjoyable diving. We returned to
the visitors buoy to eat lunch and were joined by a
very tame cormorant that came right up to the boat in search
of free offerings. John commented on his new suit;
I feel quite dry except for my left foot
or maybe my right leg. And whats that trickling down
my sleeve?
It
happened just before our second dive. John decided he needed
a comfort break and whilst climbing out of his suit, tugged
half of a cuff seal off the eight years lying in his
attic hadnt improved the suits quality. Now I
know its not funny but we couldnt help but laugh,
and of course that put an end to hes diving for the
day. Our second dive on the hen and chicks was really special.
Again, viz was really good and we saw amongst other marine
life, trigger fish a first for me in British waters.
We were also joined on the dive by a grey seal that played
peek-a- boo around the rocks. Our dive in depths up to thirteen
metres, lasted an hour.
The
day was not without further incident and Richie added to our
equipment lost at sea list by somehow losing his
weight-belt after ascending from the Lucy.
It
had been another successful day. The boat was re-fuelled and
readied for next weekends training event. John is still
without a dry dry suit. Will he invest? Or will
his inventive side come up with another home made remedy?
I think we all know the answer to that one.
PHIL.
THE POST
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August
Bank Holiday Sunday
Sunday
26th August 2007
by
Phil the Post
Our Monday
evening events have of late, been very well attended. There
are twenty plus people using the pool and the training team
are kept busy with a stream of new recruits. Later our numbers
are swelled as other club members join us and with thirty
plus people in attendance, we just about take over Llantrisant
Leisure Centres main bar area. At the last Monday meeting,
D.O. Peter Rees asked for a show of hands re- diving over
the bank holiday weekend; the response for diving on Sunday
was good and so when I didnt receive many phone calls
on the Friday, I wasnt unduly concerned. The weather
through the week was glorious and the forecast for the weekend
was for more of the same.
Sunday
dawned with bright sunshine, rising temperatures and no wind.
By 9-30 there were fifteen of us at West Wales Divers,
our best attendance so far this season. Lyn Eade was dive
marshal. We readied and launched both boats and with assistance
from Billy and his trusty tractor, launched successfully from
a crowded Broadhaven beach. The sun had prompted a rare attendance
by our D.O., who, complete with a cap clearly marked THE
BOSS, skippered Lima 1. Mac took charge of Lima 2 and
we bumped across a choppy sea to anchor just off the Mares
rock.
I was
buddied with Phil (the blade) Gillet. We rolled off the boat
and swam over to the rock then descended, landing on a rocky
seabed at 14 metres. Visibility was murky - probably due to
divers in the water before us, because as we crossed the bottom,
the water cleared. There was plenty to see including the usual
spider crabs, velvet crabs and lobster, whilst above the rocks,
huge pollack and wrasse hovered in search of lunch. Underneath
one particular ledge we spotted a conger eels tail and
had to swim around a rock to find his head. He was all of
four feet long well, thats my version
I am a fisherman after all. Our dive lasted the best part
of an hour and we ascended slowly into bright sunshine.
We ate
our lunch in Solva Harbour. Of all the beautiful places along
this coast, Solva is my favourite; we spent a pleasant hour
enjoying the scenery and relaxing.
Our second
dive site, Dinas Fawr, was one I hadnt visited before.
Visibility here was poor, but we managed forty odd minutes
at depths up to 13 metres. Our day had been good; wed
had almost perfect weather, good diving, and enjoyed good
company with plenty of chat and laughs. What minor difficulties
we encountered had been solved one way or another and even
a little difference regarding tank fittings Din versus
A. Clamp concluded in uncontrolled laughter.
We returned
to Broadhaven around 4-30. One of the boat trailers needed
attention Billy was on the case what would the
club do without this man? Hes a dab hand at repairs
and always the first person to volunteer; he must save the
club a fortune. The other boat was taken back to base. The
road home was surprisingly quiet; by 9-30 I was sorting my
kit and half way down a glass of Speckled Hen. It had been
a perfect day.
PHIL. THE POST
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Whod
be Dive Leader?
Sunday
12th August 2007
by
Phil the Post
Id
had a nagging doubt whilst driving down to West Wales. The
response at our Monday night meeting was positive, but there
had been no contact since. Surely somebody would turn up
and what if they didnt? Well, Ive been a club
member for long enough to have faith. Dont worry;
itll be alright on the day, should really be our
club motto
By 09-15, there were six of us. We operated like a well oiled
machine; the boat was prepared, the jeep hitched up, we were
ready to go but where to? And more important, who was
going to be the dive marshal? My nagging doubt had come true
and as I looked around, I realised that I was the only person
present with a dive leader ticket and that had only
recently been acquired there were others present better
able and more experienced, but
Suddenly, for me at least,
today was going to be different. The others seemed happy enough
so I became a dive marshal for the very first time, and started
my duties by driving the jeep with boat in tow down the narrow
lanes to Gelliswick boat slip. By the time we were ready to
launch, there were eight of us; Richard Griff and Wayne had
been delayed, but would join us as soon as theyd filled
their cylinders.
A strengthening wind and a heavy swell meant that diving today
would be confined to the sheltered waters of Milford Haven,
and a consensus opted to find the shipwreck Behar,
a cable laying vessel that was one of the first casualties
of WW2. Our navigation was spot on and we dropped anchor almost
into the wreck. Selecting buddy teams, part of the dive marshal
duties, means matching divers ability and experience.
Luckily we had all dived on previous occasions making selection
quite an easy task. I paired up with Mike, who has just recently
qualified as a diver. We were the first to roll off the boat
and descended through the murky water to land beside the wreck
at 16 metres. Visibility wasnt bad around 2 maybe
3 metres.
Mike hadnt been on a wreck before so I took the lead
and we swam slowly around the rusty metal and exposed spars.
My torch beam picked out dead mens fingers
and other marine growths as well as shoals of fish hovering
safe within the wreckage. Ropes and old fishing net swayed
in the gentle current, whilst long strands of seaweed added
ghostly movement to an otherwise still, silent scene. Our
dive lasted 45 minutes and we ascended slowly into bright
sunshine.
The wind was still causing a heavy swell. Our second dive
was on the wreck of the Loch Shiel a ship that
went down in 1901 off Thorne Island. She was reputedly carrying
a cargo of whisky and bricks and whilst there are still lots
of the latter, Ive yet to find any bottles of the hard
stuff. The wreck itself is now very skeletal but covered
in marine life. There are lots of crabs, fish, and the occasional
lobster to see. In the relative shallow depth of under10 metres,
Mike and I enjoyed a relaxed dive that lasted the best part
of an hour.
The day had been good. We headed back to shore, recovered
the boat and were soon on our way back home. En- route, I
reflected on my day. It had been different. In between my
dives, I checked on safety issues, kept an eye on other boat
traffic, and timed the others on their dives. There had been
no incidents and the boat was returned safely to base. Later
there would be reports to complete and logs to keep. Maybe
this dive marshal bit isnt too difficult after all
.
or do I owe a round of drinks to a very experienced and well
organised crew. Ive a sneaky feeling its more
the latter than the former.
PHIL. THE POST
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Club
Dive Day
Sunday 5th August 2007
by
Phil the Post
The weather
had started off fine and sunny but clouds were forming as
we approached Haverford West. According to the cheery forecaster
on national radio, most of the country was to be bathed in
glorious sunshine and temperatures would be in the middle
20s C. Len Bateman on radio Pembrokeshire was more conservative.
A cloudy start with rain coming in by the early afternoon
and maximum temperatures 17/18C. Why does West Wales
always have to be different? There were six members at the
Dive Centre and another couple turned up as we enjoyed a bacon
sandwich.
By
9-30 there were twelve of us. We decided to go to Skomer and
prepared both of the club boats. Launching from Broahaven
is never easy, but today we had Billy Whizz and his trusty
tractor. He pushed the boats through the big breakers and
into the smooth waters beyond. We headed out taking our time
and riding lumpy swells. In the lee of the island, conditions
were much calmer. Jeff Canning, dive marshal for the day,
set the buddy pairs and we kitted up for our first dive. I
was paired with Paul the gas Morgan. We rolled
off the boat alongside Skomer North Wall, landing at 20 metres,
onto a rocky bottom. Visibility was good 5 maybe 6
metres. Finning against a mild current we saw loads of marine
life; spider crabs, lobster, big edible crabs, ballan wrasse,
cuckoo wrasse and Pollack. They werent worried by our
presence and seemed to recognise their safe status within
the marine reserve. After half an hour, we turned around and
drifted gently back with the current. Our dive lasted 45 minutes
and with my air supply at 50 bar, we ascended slowly. At the
surface, it had started to rain. Our boat was 50 metres down
tide and as we drifted slowly towards it, gulls wheeled overhead,
and the odd puffin flew by. Back on board, we ate lunch in
North Haven then decided to head back to the Hen and
Chicks for our second dive. The rain was now falling steadily
and visibility deteriorating.
The
Hen and Chicks is one of my favourite dive sites. Its
shallow, with little or no current, and the viz is generally
good. We spent almost an hour around and under the rocks,
seeing lots of marine creatures including shoals of juvenile
fish, probably bass.
It
had been a good days diving and by the time wed
washed the boats and stored the equipment it was after 7-00.
There are always things worthy of recall and today was no
exception. Mark Jones had a new toy; a green force torch,
which he wanted to try out. Well, according to his dive buddies,
it was so bright, the crabs and lobsters hastily took opposite
sides; they thought someone had arranged a night match and
had forgotten to tell them. And Billy Whizz had new spring
type fin straps. He was full of praise after his first dive,
but we learnt some new words when he accidentally lost a fin
complete with new strap, over the side. Is there anybody in
the market for one fin complete with (new) spring strap? Then
we learn that Jeff C had tried a minilistic approach to his
equipment by rolling off the boat minus his weight belt. The
quest to discover his unsuccessful attempt to descend was
solved via a series of elimination.
But
my memory of the day would be twofold. Firstly, Wanda one
of our novice divers enjoyed her first undersea experience
in the safe confines of Skomer North Haven. Accompanied by
tall Paul, she spent 30+ minutes enjoying the
marine environment, and is looking forward to more dives in
the future. And, our oldest member, Phil the Flute,
celebrated his 76th birthday by completing two dives. Well
done Phil.
PHIL.
THE POST
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The
dive week Ramsey Island
Tuesday 24th July 2007
by
Phil the Post
Yesterday's
diving trip was very successful. I travelled down West with
Peter Swarfield. The journey was uneventful; we chatted about
club events past and present, club members, and other 'man'
topics.
Arriving at West Wales Divers we met up with John Evans, Jeff
Canning and Richie Grice. A brief discussion, then Richie
left to fill the boat with fuel; he met us at Broadhaven.
Our launch was almost successful, but we misjudged the depth
of water and the boat grounded onto the sand. Thankfully the
tide was rising; we manhandled the boat into deeper water
and were soon riding the wave crests as we headed for Ramsey
Island.
The journey was lumpy, a result of the poor weather conditions
of late, though thankfully, the sun was shining; it was a
lovely day. Arriving at Ramsey, Richie used our new monitoring
system to gauge depths and we dropped anchor in a sheltered
bay.
I dived with John 'Crabhook'Evans. We dropped into 18 metres;
the visibility was good and the current slight. John followed
his favourite pursuit ie, find the lobster I followed behind,
admiring the marine creatures of which there were lots.
Towards
the end of the dive, John shouted at me (well, he would have
if he could have) I followed his moving torch beam and saw
a large grey seal. This inquisitive creature played hide and
seek with us and eventually came close enough to nibble at
my fins. I was ecstatic!! I've seen it happen to other people,
read about it, and seen pictures, but when it happened to
me, I was over the moon. He or she looked up at me with large
soulful eyes; I reached out, and in a flash, he was gone.
He re-appeared as we were ascending, this time playing around
John's fins.
Back on the boat we were like a pair of school children as
we tried to relay our experiences to the others. The same
seal interacted with the next pair of divers. After their
dive, they recalled similar experiences.
Our next dive was in another bay. Here we experienced a mixture
of reef and sand. There were lots of dog fish, lobsters, velvet
spider crabs, and scallops.
Boat recovery was a smooth operation and apart from having
to negotiate lots of holiday makers who are unfamiliar with
the narrow lanes of West Wales, theres nothing else
to report.
We got back to base around 6-30pm.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Club
Training Day
Sunday 15th July 2007
by
Phil the Post
Her
Very First Time
There's
something special about that very first time. We sit there
exchanging glances, making small talk; throwaway remarks.
I can tell by her expression that she's anxious. I know what's
going through her mind. 'Will it be as good as they said it
would be? Will it be safe? I've come so far, is there any
way of turning back?'
And now
it's the moment. We've been through the checks together, weight-belt,
air turned on, releases identified, fins and mask in place.
I motion that I'm going in first, then confidently roll off
the boat and on resurfacing, encourage my student to follow.
"Come on in, the water's lovely". She remains statue
like then there's movement and almost as if in slow
motion she falls backwards; there's a mighty splash, she resurfaces
thankfully, her regulator clasped tightly in her mouth. Her
eyes are wide she's breathing fast; I issue words of
encouragement "well done, stay calm". And
then, "Are you ready?" She nods, nervously, unable
to answer for fear of losing the regulator. I know how she's
feeling right now; it's not too long ago that I was in a similar
situation. I remember how my instructor encouraged me and
try to do the same for my student.
I sense
the time is right, and raise my inflate/deflate hose with
my thumb on the deflate button, indicating for her to follow
the example. We prepare to descend. She finds the controls
and together we leave the surface; the sky disappears from
view; now we're entering the undersea world and within seconds
my feet hit the sand. Thankfully my student is within touching
distance, wobbling clumsily, almost toddler like, trying to
balance in this unnatural environment. She tries to move,
and falls over. I motion for her to add a small amount of
air to her jacket and demonstrate. She follows my example
and instantly gains neutral buoyancy. I clap my hands in encouragement,
and prepare to move off. Visibility is good at least
three metres and at this shallow depth 4/5 metres,
there's plenty of light. We spot wrasse, small flat fish,
and lots of spider crabs. All this is new to my student and
she is clearly enjoying this new experience. There's lots
to see, anemones, different coloured weed, and in the eel
grass, hundreds of juvenile fish. But she's smitten with the
spider crabs, and I watch with amusement as she gingerly picks
one particularly lively specimen up taking care not to engage
with its extended claws, and then gently replaces it to the
sea bed where it scuttles to the safety of a large rock.
I've
been monitoring the air gauges throughout the dive; at this
shallow depth, air consumption is conservative. We've been
underwater for thirty minutes, I'm beginning to feel the cold,
and at thirty five minutes, give the signal to ascend. She
adds a little air to her jacket almost as if she's been doing
it for years. We ascend slowly and soon there's the sky, and
scores of puffins wheeling overhead. I signal the boat and
watch as they respond. We bob together in the gentle swell;
I'm tempted to ask "How was it for you?" But the
huge smile behind her mask make words unnecessary.
Liz was
confident throughout this her first boat dive. She managed
to control her buoyancy and her breathing; a compliment to
club trainers and training policy. The dive had been one activity
of the training weekend and congratulations are in order for
Chris, Alan, Owen, Phil, 'Smudge', Mike, Paul and Liz who
all attended lectures and completed several exercises at both
open water and club diver level. A big thank you is also owed
to club training officer Richie, committee member 'Tall Paul'
and Max who gave up their time over the weekend. Both club
boats were used on the Sunday, a rare sight these days according
to one local observer; but hopefully with plenty of new divers
being introduced to the pleasures of diving off the West Wales
coast, two boats filled with Llantrisant Divers heading out
to sea, will in future become a frequent sight.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Club
Dive Day at the Smalls
Sunday 10th June 2007
by
Phil the Post
On
Sunday 10th of June, several club members took advantage of
excellent weather conditions to chance a trip to the Small's
lighthouse.
This rocky outcrop 22 miles out from the Haven, is a once
a year trip, and that's if you're lucky.
Due to its remote location, sea and weather conditions have
to be near perfect to be able to go there, and enough members
need to turn up as club safety policy dictates that two boats
must be used when travelling this far out.
On this
particular Sunday, the sun was shining, there was almost no
wind, the temperature was approaching 20c at 9:00am, the tides
were favourable and there were ten of us present and correct
at WWD, ready and eager to go. Due to fuelling needs, we decided
to launch from Gelliswick. Lyn, dive marshal for the day,
used the Pajero to tow one boat, Jeff Canning followed on
with the other.
Launching
went smoothly and we were soon zooming out of the Haven. There
was a mist over the sea, and it was mainly thanks to our senior
members, Mac, Billy and Lyn, that we eventually saw the tall
lighthouse. I feared a day out in Dublin was on the cards,
had navigation been left to the rest of us. A compass or GPS
on each boat, and members properly trained in their use was
never more obvious, (strong hint to the committee).
En route
we were privileged to see feeding puffins, shearwaters and
my favourites, the mighty gannets; we were also lucky enough
to be joined by a pod of dolphins as they played in our bow
wave for several seconds before disappearing only to be seen
minutes later in the distance.
There
were several boats at the Smalls, fishing boats, dive boats,
and a hard boat full of excited people who had come to see
the seals.
There are lots of seals here, big ones and small ones; they
sprawl across the rocks as though catching the rays, or pop
up at the side of the boat with an inquisitive look on their
face; they really are most amusing creatures, I could willingly
watch them all day. But we were here to dive. It was slack
tide. Perfect! Lyn paired people up and we were soon underwater.
Visibility
was good, and I'm not just saying that! Apart from a bit of
suspended sediment, it was possible to see clearly for at
least six metres. We saw wrasse, pollack, and the biggest
crabs and lobsters you could imagine. The marine vegetation
was stunning; every rock surface was covered with bright,
beautiful colours, you could almost have been in the tropics.
Water temperature wasn't bad either, a heady 13c, wow!!
By the
time we had all got out of the water, the tide was racing
and boy; for our second dive we needed to change location
and so reluctantly we left this paradise and headed back towards
Skokholm. The ebb tide was flowing as we rolled off the boat;
this time I buddied with Jeff. We levelled off at 16 metres
and explored the many gullies that are a feature of this mark.
Again, the viz was good and we saw plenty of marine life.
It was
6:30pm when we eventually got back to WWD. There was a queue
to wash the boats; we waited our turn patiently. The temperature
was still in the 20s, it would have been nice, after putting
the boats away, to enjoy a couple of beers and watch the sun
go down, but we needed to head East, and it was 9:00pm when
I and my travelling companion Peter Swarfield pulled into
the Cross Inn pub near Llantrisant. Over a pint or two we
reflected on what had been a brilliant day. Perfect weather,
lots to see, a few laughs.
I promised
not to tell about Richie Griff rolling off the boat without
his fins on; he was quite a way down tide when we managed
to catch up with him, we couldn't move for laughing, and I've
a feeling it'll be some time before he's allowed to forget
it.
Next week
I'm travelling to Cuba and whilst I'll be diving there, I'm
sure it won't be half as much fun as a day out with the club
'down west'.
PHIL.
THE POST
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The
Training Weekend
Sunday 20th May 2007
by
Phil the Post
It
was quiet in the little café behind West Wales Divers;
surprisingly quiet considering it was a lovely Sunday morning
in the middle of May, but understandable, taking into account
the nasty winds and heavy showers that had been the weather
pattern for the previous week. There were seven of us assembled;
men on a mission; all present for this, a training day; all
anticipating the challenge involved in demonstrating skills
that would lead onto a higher level of S.A.A. recognition.
We launched from Broadhaven, the scene more reminiscent of
an Australian surf beach as we fought to hold the boat against
powerful oncoming rollers. Luckily, we managed to remain upright
and Richie, dive marshal for this trip, powered across the
bay, past the Hen and Chicks and out towards Skomer. Todays
exercise was a deep dive and Richie had chosen the site of
the wreck, Lucy, to complete the necessary tasks. The Lucy
ran aground in Jack Sound on Valentines Day 1967. The
next full tide lifted her off and she sank into 40 metres
of water where she still sits perfectly upright. Further details
on www.westwalesdivers.co.uk.
We tied up to the buoy and assembled our kit. Paul Morgan,
Max, and myself were doing this dive as part of the Dive Leader
level. Richie gave a briefing, going through the hazards of
deep diving, and then using tables, we calculated our dive
plan. We rolled off the boat and descended the shot line.
The water temperature was 12.C; not violently cold, but I
was thankful for the layers of insulation. Visibility was
awful, a result of the previous weeks storms, and as
we got to the 25metre mark the light faded; we were literally,
in the dark; it was eerie; I couldnt see anything, and
needed to use a torch to read my computer.
The top of the wreck is at 36 metres; at this depth, my computer
told me I had 10 minutes before de-co. Groping in the blackness,
I followed the rail towards the stern, shining my torch and
picking out huge spider crabs and dead mens fingers
in the narrow beam. The combination of darkness and depth
was awesome; I gripped the rail tightly! A further glance
at my computer revealed 6 minutes remaining; it was time to
turn around. We gathered at the shot line and made our ascent
slowly, pausing at 3 metres for a safety stop.
Back on the boat we discussed our brief adventure into the
depths and all admitted to a heightening of sensations as
we had descended into the dark. Theres no doubt in my
mind that a deep, dark, and cold environment provided a challenge
that I hadnt encountered before and one I would have
to try again several times before I could say I would be confident
in this sort of environment.
Richie and Tall Paul were next, and they completed a more
involved deco dive as part of their dive supervisor
level. Phil Gillett and Mark Jones were last in the water.
We had lunch whilst watching the antics of the Puffin population
around Skomer, and were entertained by numerous grey seals.
They popped up frequently as if wanting to know what we were
doing in their backyard. Our second dive, on the North
Wall, was abandoned due to zero visibility and we completed
the day with a relaxed dive on the Hen and Chicks, where the
viz was slightly better.
By the time we had recovered the boat and returned to W.W.D.,
it was after 7.00pm; it had been a long day, but luckily traffic
heading east was light and we were enjoying a well deserved
pint in the Barn on the outskirts of Llantrisant just before
9.00pm.
Next weekend is a bank holiday and West Wales diving will
be extended to Monday. I look forward to seeing you there.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Diving
Report
Sunday 22 April 2007
by
Phil the Post
Why would
you want to get up at 05-30am on a Sunday morning? Well, if
youve a dog to walk, a hundred mile+ journey to do,
a date with a bacon sandwich and a mug of steaming tea; and
all to fit in before 09-00am; you aint got much option.
Martin picked me up at 06-45am and we headed West. We spent
the journey discussing mundane topics; family, work, holidays;
and trying to ignore the darkening clouds and the odd speck
of rain. Why, after such a lovely week of weather must it
suddenly deteriorate on a Sunday? The odd specks turned to
big drops, and the windscreen wipers needed to be on constant,
to cope with the downpour. Like little boys, we talked our
way through the rain. Maybe it was only a shower; it wouldnt
be raining in Haverford West would it?
By
the time we pulled up outside of West Wales Divers the rain
had stopped; see, told you so!! Max and his buddy Dave were
in the little Café. The rest of the team began to arrive;
two more, then two more, then two more, and more
Dive
Marshall for the day, Lyn, appeared on the scene. Now there
were ten of us; and only one boat!! Lyn, not known for making
hasty decisions, and armed with the knowledge that West Wales
Divers had cancelled their charter for the day,( because of
the deteriorating weather conditions) called a conference.
We decided that given the circumstances, it would be safe
and sensible to have one dive each and to confine our activities
to the seas around the Haven.
Launching
was a doddle as the full tide was lapping the top of the slipway
at Gelliswick. Martin took the helm and we headed around the
piers and out towards St. Annes Head. The sea was a
horrible grey colour and the breakers made progress slow.
It soon became obvious that conditions outside of the Haven
would be un-comfy to say the least. A dive on the wreck of
the Behar seemed a safer option. We buddied up and dropped
into the water. It was cold around 10C according to
my computer. Martin and myself followed the anchor rope down
onto the seabed. Visibility was surprisingly good (this would
have compensated for the cold which was by now making my fingers
very numb), except that there was nothing to see!! The seabed
was featureless and the Behar? The old hands on board told
tales of a huge wreck. Well either we had dropped on the wrong
spot or somebody had pinched the rusty old hulk overnight.
Our dive lasted half an hour during which time we managed
to find several patches of rough ground where there was at
least a little bit of life to see.
Back
aboard the rib, it transpired that nobody had managed to find
the wreck. Max and Dave had come the closest. They had found
a huge anchor, but when they followed the rusty old chain,
it ended in nothing!! Maybe a working GPS on board our rib,
would help.
Recovery
was achieved with polished performance. We really are getting
quite good at this; though I must admit, the Pajero makes
life a lot easier. Back at West Wales divers, we washed the
boat down and stored the safety gear. We were on our way East
by 4-00pm. Not the best days diving, but good to see
so many enthusiastic members so early in the season, and its
always great to get out on the water, regardless of the end
results.
The
ten members who braved the cold were Lyn (dive marshall) Martin
(he has a tool for just about any situation) John (Crabhook),
Max, Dave, Phil (Crabhooks apprentice), Mike Rees,(who
only came to feed the fishes) Gail and Griff; nice to see
Gail come back to cold water diving, next time she may even
get into the water) and yours truly
PHIL.
THE POST
P.S.
I look forward to seeing you on future dive weekends; come
along and join us, theres plenty of room for more.
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First
Dive Of The Season
(Easter Sunday 2007)
by Phil the
Post
The
weather over the Easter weekend, was glorious. On Easter Sunday,
an early veil of mist gave way to blue skies, bright sunshine,
and virtually no wind. We met up at the West Wales Divers
base, Hasguards Cross, which is just beyond Haverfordwest.
There were seven of us including a rare appearance of our
leader Mr. Rees. Once a frequent diver in West Wales, in recent
years, Peter is better known for his diving exploits in warmer
climes. Maybe this is a comeback, watch this space!
After
a substantial breakfast and two mugs of tea, we towed the
boat to Broadhaven. The tide was just off the slipway; ideal
conditions for launching and we were soon on our way, zooming
across the water towards Mares rock. The sea was silky
smooth. We saw cormorants, shearwaters and as we approached
Solva, a lone dolphin rolled on the surface.
There
were five of us prepared to dive and we split into two teams.
I was partnered with Phil the Blade. We rolled
off the boat together and hit the water. It was cold; it might
have been a warm day but believe me, the sea was cold
ten
degrees Celsius according to my computer, and it got colder
as we descended. Visibility however was surprisingly good
and we made our way across the rocky bottom down to twenty
metres. Along the way we saw pollack, wrasse, dogfish and
literally hundreds of spider crabs. Our dive lasted forty
minutes by which time we were running low on air.
After
a leisurely lunch spent in the picturesque Solva harbour,
we headed back, past Stack rock, and anchored up at a well
known dive mark, the hen and chicks.
Our
second dive was similar to the first; maybe the visibility
was a little better but it was still very cold. There was
plenty to see though including lobsters edible crab and the
biggest spider crabs you could imagine. As in the first dive,
our air supply began to dwindle after about forty minutes
and we surfaced slowly into bright sunshine.
Back
in Broadhaven, team effort made boat recovery a doddle and
I was soon on the motorway heading east. It had been a perfect
day; good diving, good company, and most important, Id
be home in time to enjoy a couple of pints of good beer in
my local.
Club
members please note, the dive calendar has been published
on the club web site. www.llantrisantdivers.com I hope to
see you over the next few dive weekends.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Start
of the Dive Week
(29th & 30th July 2006)
by Phil the Post
Some call
it Sods Law others are more explicit! But thats
how it goes. So on the Sunday that ten of us turn up to dive,
the wind is blowing at force 4/5, limiting our choice of venues
and launch sites. We divers are a resourceful lot mind, and
following a discussion, we decided that Gelliswick slip would
be a safe launch site, and that this would be an ideal opportunity
to see how we could handle a situation towing and launching
two boats with just one tow vehicle. Tall Paul volunteered
to drive, and with Lima 1 hitched up, was soon on his way.
Meantime, we took advantage of the café facilities
for a leisurely breakfast. Paul was back within the hour,
and with Lima 2 in tow, we set off in convoy for Gelliswick.
Launching
went smoothly and two boats headed around the jetties out
towards the mouth of the Haven. The wind had picked up, and
it soon became clear that our diving today would be very restricted.
Amidst rolling waves, we decided to dive inside the Haven;
our first dive would be on the wreck of the Dakotion.
Now. I make no secret of the fact that I do not like wreck
diving, and see the Dakotionas a pile of rusty
metal sheets! But, any dive is better than none, so after
the buddy teams had been appointed by marshall for the day
Jeff. Canning, we dropped into the murky water and followed
the anchor rope down to the sea bed, some 18 metres below.
Visibility was just about zero, but thankfully my buddy Phil.
(the blade) Gillet had a powerful torch and we fumbled our
way around the bottom spotting small lobsters, and several
species of fish amongst the wreckage before deciding to knock
it on the head.
At the
surface, the sun was shining brightly, in fact it was a glorious
day, but the wind and the tide were causing the anchored boats
to rock about wildly. On our boat, young Peter Swarfield was
sharing his breakfast with the fish whilst on the other boat,
new member, Mike Rees who many of us considered was more at
home on the sea than Popeye, had turned a whiter shade
of pale and was close to joining Peter!
We decided
to seek shelter and headed for the Thorn Island; our second
dive would be on the wreck of the Loch Sheil.
Here, visibility was a little better and we spent a pleasant
half hour perusing the wreckage, and searching for remnants
of the cargo, bottles of whisky, and bricks, (we found the
bricks). It was now time to go; we made our way back to the
slip; boat recovery went well, and we were soon back at base,
West Wales Divers. Just after six pm I settled down as passenger
in Martins car and enjoyed a very pleasant journey home.
There
was supposed to be diving all the next week, in fact, I fully
intended to return to West Wales on Thursday, but the weather
deteriorated and reports indicated that visibility remained
poor so I didnt make it. The next dive weekend is 12/13
of August when it is intended to visit the Lucy
for some deep dive training. Yes! I know, another wreck, but----.
Maybe Ill see you there.
PHIL.
THE POST
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Last
Weekend's Diving
(1st & 2nd July 2006)
by Phil the Post
After
two weeks spent diving in the Maldive Islands, I couldnt
wait to get back to the challenging waters of West Wales
(NOT!) The recent spell of fine weather held out. Sunday dawned
bright and sunny with temperatures of 20.0c and rising. My
early morning journey to Hasguards Cross was rewarded
with the sighting of a kite hovering over a roundabout at
St. Clears; quite a start to the day.
The café
behind West Wales Divers was heaving; workers toiled
valiantly to satisfy demand for healthy breakfasts; bacon,
two eggs, sausage, beans and toast being the order of the
day. I spotted our treasurer Jeffrey, working his way through
what is commonly known as a Divers Delight and joined
him. Jeff had come down on Friday with every intention of
a camping, canoeing and diving weekend. He confided in me
that he had forgotten to bring with him one basic piece of
kit the tent, but in true pioneering fashion had managed
to secure accommodation locally. He asked me not to tell of
his dilemma, and I promised not to; so please dont tell
anybody else!
The rest
of the gang arrived and we prepared the boat. Later, using
our recently acquired Pajero, we launched Lima 2 from Gelliswick.
We had been joined by our President, Viv with his own boat,
and we made our way together, around the jetties, out towards
Skokholm Island. Our team for the day, Viv, Phil the flute,
Martin, Jeff, Mac, Phil Gillet, and myself. Dive Marshall
for the day was Jeff, and he set the buddy teams.
Mac and
I were first in. The shock of cold water-13.0c- penetrated
my dry-suit, under-suit and base layers. It was a sharp contrast
with the 30.0c Indian Ocean I had been enjoying just a week
previous! Visibility however was good and there was plenty
to see amongst the rocks and kelp. Half-way through the dive,
the current seemed to pick up. It was not surprising therefore
to discover when we surfaced, that we had strayed into the
race and were heading at a rate of knots towards Jack Sound.
Luckily, Jeff had spotted our SMB and followed us to the pick
up point.
We all
managed two dives before the weather turned. The journey back
was a wet one. Gelliswick slip was thankfully clear, and following
a smooth recovery we were soon back at base. It had been another
successful day with plenty to see, including, seals, puffins,
cormorants; and underwater, pollack, wrasse, dogfish, crabs,
lobsters, and a host of other colourful marine life. WHY THEREFORE
were there so few of us diving? Surely we cant all be
just warm water divers. Perhaps well have a better turn
out next weekend. Members please note, if youre unsure
of the arrangements for the weekends diving, give me
a ring on my works number, 01443 226201, during office hours
on Fridays. I have up to the minute details of who will be
Dive Marshall, and how many people are likely to turn up.
Theres no problem with towing now that we have our own
vehicle. I look forward to hearing from you.
PHIL
THE POST
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Bank
Holiday Weekend 2006
Sunday
is Dive Day!
by
Phil the Post
After
a week of dismal weather, Sunday started dry and bright. Richard
arrived to pick me up at 7.00am, and following a minor emergency
when I took time to find my glasses, we were soon heading
down the M4. Conversation at this time of the morning tends
to be limited, and I took a rare opportunity of being a passenger,
to admire the lovely countryside. The journey was uneventful
and it was just after 9.00am, when we rolled up outside of
West Wales Divers where the other club members making up the
team for today, were waiting. The look we got
didn't seem right and we were greeted with the news that the
promised tow vehicle, our very own long awaited 4x4, wasn't
available. We resigned ourselves to using the smaller Humber.
It never ceases to amaze me what a co-operative bunch we divers
are however, and over a cup of coffee in the café,
the Dive Shop owner offered to tow and launch our Cobra. We
were very grateful to Roland for saving the day.
At Little
Haven, a stiff breeze was coming off the sea, causing breakers
to roll up the beach. We made our way slowly towards Stack
Rock where we hoped to get a little shelter. The Cobra rode
the waves well; and we were soon anchored; grey seals eyed
us warily as the dive teams busied themselves kitting up.
There were two other dive boats in the area, a sure sign of
the weather which would restrict out diving today. Jeff and
Martin were first to roll off the boat; Richard discovered
he had forgotten to fit a low pressure hose to his first stage,
but prepared as we always are, (or if were honest, purely
by good fortune), we had a spare and he was soon ready to
join John Evans, and Phil. Gillett; they disappeared beneath
the grey sea and I watched their bubbles as they made their
way towards the rock. The sun had stayed out and in the shelter
of the rock, it was quite pleasant. I watched the seals and
the sea birds whilst looking out for the S.M.B. which would
signal the divers return. Martin and Jeff surfaced after 50
minutes. Due to the low tide, their dive had been restricted
to 12 metres. Visibility however had been reasonable; they
had spotted edible and spider crabs, as well as dead
mens fingers and the ever present dog fish. The
others surfaced soon afterwards. All had enjoyed the dive.
We decided to try the Hen and Chicks for our second
dive and made our way back slowly. Following a respectable
surface interval, and butty break, the dive teams
entered the water. This time, visibility wasn't as good, and
due to the state of the tide, depth was restricted to 8 metres.
By the time the divers had surfaced and wed stowed all
the gear away, it was 4.00pm. We made our way to Little Haven
and following a challenging recovery were soon back at West
Wales Divers.
The day
had been enjoyable; we had managed to get two dives in, and
in between, there was plenty of surface activity with seals,
and a variety of sea birds to view. Whats that you say,
Why didn't I dive? I almost forgot to mention.
We had kitted up as we usually do, in the car park at Little
Haven. As I was struggling into my dry suit, a wrist seal
ripped, consigning me to boat cover for the rest of the day.
In fairness, Martin, (always the man to be relied upon to
have just about anything you might need) tried a repair using
strong tape, but I didn't fancy a soaking! As you can well
imagine, when the boys came up from their first dive and said
that the sea temperature was a staggering 11 degrees Celsius
I was truly disappointed that I hadnt shared their experience.
And on their second dive when the viz was almost zero; well,
I was gutted. So, on our return,it was West Wales Divers to
the rescue again; they took my suit and fitted two new wrist
seals. I wont need it for while as its the Maldives
for me in June. I wont be diving in the U.K. again until
July; hopefully the water will be warmer by then; I hope so
because Im fast running out of excuses!
PHIL
THE POST
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Copyright © 2002 - .... Llantrisant
Sub-Aqua Club. All rights reserved.
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