MEMBERS of a youth club have been learning how to scuba dive.

It was the top choice of teenagers attending the Sacriston Youth Project when they were asked to pick a new activity.

A group of eight boys, aged 13 to 15, are undergoing training at the Freemans’ Quay Leisure Centre with the Durham City Diving School.

They are preparing for a trip to the Lake District during the school summer holiday to complete the open water element of the course, with the help of a £500 donation from house-builder Partner Construction.

The group will attend the Capernwray Diving Centre, home to some of UK’s finest inland diving, with crystal clear water, amazing fish life and attractions such as sunken boats, planes and even a helicopter.

Ben Thornton, 14, of Sacriston, said: “We chose diving because we thought it would be a good experience and fun too.

“It is hard, especially the theory but I am really enjoying it.

“When I have my qualification, I would really like to go abroad and see the range of underwater wildlife.”

Durham County Councillor Heather Liddle, who is chairman of the youth project, said the club offers opportunities to young people that they might not normally get the chance to try.

“She said: “Our innovative and creative youth workers continuously encourage our members to aim high and think outside the box when it comes to choosing activities.”