Blue skies, a blazing sun and temperatures well into the mid-20s gave Cromhall Quarry a Mediterranean feel for the group of a dozen divers, plus support crew, who trekked from Hertfordshire to the diving site in South Gloucestershire oin 2 June 2024. With high rocky cliffs and outcrops reverberating with the cries of circling birds, added to the high temperatures, it was like being on a Doctor Who filmset at times.
Cromhall Quarry lends itself to rescue training, with a wide flat beach area ideal for landing “casualties” in the various scenarios which were being practiced. The water level was exceptionally high, with one side entry famed for it’s 2m-high giant stride now itself a good 6 inches under water. Giant strides gave way to gently flopping backwards rolls into the water. Warm at the surface – registering 18 degrees C for those just entering – but a wintry 8 degrees C at the bottom, 15m or so deep near the main training area. Visibility was slightly less than Mediterranean, to put it kindly, but still within usable standards for what needed to be done.
A variety of skills, training and practical exercises were completed, and it was a productive day for all.
Well done to the students and their families, and many thanks to the instructors and thanks especially to Training Officer Lindsey for shepherding everyone in such a large group to accomplish their various tasks.
See the event listings for future training dates.
Check out the gallery of photos for Dacorum Scuba’s inland diving action, winter 2023 to summer 2024
