With a rich history , its own hard boat and an annual photo competition , Torbay BSAC is one of Britain ’ s leading dive clubs . Interview by Kristina Pedder
Secretary Jannike Smye , Tony McCarthy and Jerry Blackler about to dive at the Manacles
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Torbay BSAC
LOCATION : Torquay , Devon MEMBERSHIP FEE : £ 210 (£ 18 per month ) CONTACT : e torbaybsac @ aol . com ! torbay-bsac . co . uk F Torbay BSAC I torbaybsac
With a rich history , its own hard boat and an annual photo competition , Torbay BSAC is one of Britain ’ s leading dive clubs . Interview by Kristina Pedder
Tell us about the early history of BSAC branch number eight …
The club was formed early in 1954 . The branch grew rapidly and in 1961 a project was started to survey all known and unknown wrecks along the south Devon coast . This resulted in the club purchasing the wreck of the SS Maine and subsequently the salvage of her bronze propeller in 1963 . The sale of the prop financed the making of an awarding-winning film called When You Know How , which you can still watch on YouTube . In 1966 , Torbay member Derek Cockbill was elected National Diving Officer , and the first ever Club Instructor course was held later at the branch that year .
Where is Torbay ?
Torbay is an area encompassing several towns around Tor Bay itself . The club is based in Torquay , a traditional and thriving seaside town set on what is nicknamed the English Riviera coast . It ’ s a top UK holiday destination .
Visiting King Rock on Torbay Diver , the club ’ s hard boat
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