Woolacombe Surf Life Saving Club (CIO)
The Woolacombe Surf Life Saving Club (CIO) is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to promoting beach safety and lifesaving skills in North Devon, England. Registered as Charity No. 1176269, the club has operated as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and was awarded the title of "Super Life Saving Club of 2024" for its contributions to surf lifesaving[1].

History

Established in 1962 as part of the North Devon Surf Life Saving Club, it has since become one of the UK’s leading institutions in lifesaving sports. The club has produced national, international, and world champions across various aquatic disciplines[5].

Activities and Training

The club focuses on teaching beach and sea safety, including rescue techniques using equipment such as torpedo buoys, rescue boards, and surf skis. Training occurs year-round, with pool-based fitness sessions in winter and beach-based drills during spring, summer, and autumn. Events include sprinting, beach flags, board racing, and surf skiing[5].

Membership

Membership is structured into age groups:

• Nippers: Ages 6/7–13
• Youth: Ages 13–19
• Seniors: Ages 16–30
• Masters: Ages 30+

The club provides equipment for beginners and emphasizes inclusivity, competitive participation, and lifesaving certification[5].

Objectives

Key aims include raising awareness of coastal hazards, reducing drowning incidents, and fostering community engagement through lifesaving education[5]. The charity’s activities are funded through grants, donations, and training programs to support its operations[2].

[1] https://woolacombesurflifesavingclub.org [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1176269&subid=0 [3] https://causes.benevity.org/causes/826-1176269?lang=en [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5114279/contact-information [5] https://www.slsgb.org.uk/club/woolacombe-surf-life-saving-club/