Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Presents Life Saving Awards to Members of Night Owl Lifesaving Club

On Saturday 23 January 2016, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Mickey Ruane hosted a reception in The Bowling Pavilion, Kilkeel to honour members of Night Owls Royal Life Saving Society for their achievements in obtaining Open Water Certificates at Cranfield Beach during the summer of 2015.

The Night Owls performed with distinction throughout the year, with some of the young people being called to put their lifesaving skills into action. Members and coaches were commended for the dedication and many hours of their time they had given up voluntarily to train in order to achieve this prestigious award.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Mickey Ruane said, “I am delighted to present the Open Water Certificates today to the young people who have made this great achievement. It is vital to educate young people on water safety and lifesaving skills. Many people needlessly die from drowning every year and many more suffer injury through near drowning experiences. The award recipients now have the skills to prevent drowning and stop the unnecessary loss of life in our local waters.”

Chairperson Ruane presented individual certificates of achievement to the various award recipients and took the opportunity to speak informally with the members of the Lifesaving Society, coaches and parents during the following reception.