BarZero are celebrating winning 3rd place in the first ever Branch of the Year competition. Arranged by the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC), who are the governing body for scuba diving in the UK, the contest sought to find the club that did the most for its members. BSAC clubs from all over the world were scored based on several factors including the number of dives completed, the amount of training conducted, skills and special interest courses completed and the number of new members that joined.


This success follows several years of effort and investment in the club, such as new sets of scuba equipment and instructor training. The availability of this equipment means that new trainees don't need to buy it all up front, and all our instructors give their time free of charge - which really helps keep costs down. BarZero members were introduced to lots of different aspects of the underwater world during the year: some developed their rescue, lifesaving and first aid skills while others completed courses in such diverse subjects as Underwater Photography, Outboard Engine & Boat Maintenance or Underwater Archaeology. Nine beginners completed their basic diver training (Ocean Diver), with pool sessions conducted at Monks Walk School, Welwyn Garden City to practice skills and procedures. Highlights of last year's diving calendar included WWII wrecks off Dorset, dramatic underwater scenery in Gozo, seals in Northumberland and manatees in Florida in addition to a number of more local sites.

BarZero is already looking ahead to the next diving season, and hoping to improve on 3rd place. A number of trips have already been planned, including an expedition to the Scilly Isles and another Ocean Diver course is scheduled to introduce more first-timers to the scuba diving world. In addition, the weekly try dive sessions remain as popular as ever!