Lifesaving school celebrates 50th year

Lifesaving school celebrates 50th year

13 June 2018

THE Burrendale Hotel in Newcastle was the venue for Downpatrick School of Lifesaving to celebrate their 50th year of service to the community. 

The event was attended by the founder members, Mervyn and Jeanne Wallace, Donny Maguire and Brendan Rodgers.

Representing the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) were its president, Ian Hutchings, drowning coordinator for Ireland Niall Elliot, vice-chairman of RLSS NI Jim McCurry, secretary of RLSS NI Karen McCurry and RLSS advisor Agnes Moffett. Swimming Teachers’ Association tutor Des Cossum was also in attendance.

Current and past committee members, teachers and members, along with their children, enjoyed the night, especially the photo booth and sweet wheel.

Pat Power and Jeff Breen spoke highly of the club and its association with the council’s sports association and Down Leisure Centre. Chris Kelly from Down Leisure Centre was also in attendance, as was Jane Gribben, from Volunteer Now.

The evening was marked by the presentation of the awards to the junior teachers.

Rising stars — Meghan McTeer, Sarah McCartan and Deirdre Hayes.

Continuous improvement — Shauna Devlin.

Excellence in improvement — Ciara Devlin.

Highly commended teacher — Rachel Martin.

Most dynamic teacher — Lucy Cromie

Valuable service — Cleona McCartan.

Karen Casement Trophy (most recognised teacher) — Judy Walsh.

Donny Maguire Award (continuous volunteering) — Paul McMeekin.

Dedication and service — Alex Cromie.

The oldest recipient of an award was 94 year-old Donny Maguire, who was presented with the Long Service Medal, the highest service award of the RLSS, by Mr Hutchings. The youngest person watching was four years old.

This was an unprecedented occasion in that it was the first time an RLSS president had visited the club.

Mr Hutchings had travelled from Bovey Tracey in Devon for the event and kindly presented the awards.

During his address he spoke highly of the young coaching staff and he with the following accolade: “This school of lifesaving is undoubtedly the best I have ever attended, both in organisation and standards.”