Two RNLI lifeguards took a ‘rewarding and humbling’ trip in December 2012 to train other lifeguards in Senegal, West Africa. Lifeguards Tim Doran, from the Causeway Coast, and Vaughan Lawson, from Devon, travelled to Yoff Beach in Dakar, at the end of 2012.

Steve Wills, RNLI International Development Manager, stresses that drowning is, sadly, a common occurrence in Senegal: ‘There were 55 recorded drownings on one beach in one month last Summer!’ The RNLI's international development work is self-funding – income generated through sales of equipment and consultancy to some countries will fund the development work in lowand middle-income countries.

Over 2 weeks, Lifeguards Tim and Vaughan trained 25 volunteer and full-time lifeguards and members of the Fire service, and six instructors, who will, in turn, teach lifesaving skills to others to help establish a sustainable lifesaving service in Senegal.

Scan here to see a film of their visit.