Exmouth Tri-Hards welcome police funding boost for open water training
The group have received ÂŁ1,275
A sporty Exmouth group have received money from Devon and Cornwall Police to fund open water swimming courses.
The ÂŁ1,275 funding boosts for the Tri-Hards is a result of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), which enables forces to make good use of cash or assets seized from criminals. The funds are diverted to good causes in local communities across Devon and Cornwall.
The Tri-Hards established in 2017 and now have more than 400 members from all walks of life. They enjoy swimming, cycling and running and welcome people of all abilities and fitness levels.
The money will be used to train three people to become open water coaches who can help others with water safety in Exmouth.
A Tri-Hards spokesperson said: "The directors and committee of Tri-Hards would like to thank Devon and Cornwall Police for the funding for three open water swimming leader courses.
"These courses will allow our swimming leaders to increase the capacity of our sea swimming activities, helping more than 400 members to be more active, stay safe in the sea, and increase their wellbeing."
Superintendent Tom Holmes, who chaired the latest POCA funding panel for North, East and West Devon police area, added: "Devon and Cornwall Police work with partner agencies such as colleagues at the RNLI and HM Coastguard to promote water safety and try to prevent tragedies at the coast.
"The funding panel decided this was a very worthy cause and we feel the money will be well spent on providing courses for open water swimming and raising awareness of the potential risks."