Who We Are
History of Thanet Lifeguard Cub
The tradition of lifesaving on the Isle of Thanet dates back to the early 1900s. By the 1960s, a small group of dedicated volunteers began providing lifeguard services on Ramsgate Main Sands during the summer months. Ramsgate District Council supported these early efforts by offering a modest beach hut for equipment storage and shelter.
The early 1970s saw the construction of swimming pools in both Ramsgate and Margate, providing a vital resource for training and development. In 1974, Thanet Lifeguard Club was officially established and granted training time at Ramsgate pool on Sunday evenings. The club quickly grew, playing a key role in training and assessing the local council’s pool and beach lifeguard teams.
Thanet Lifeguard Club has always been committed to promoting water safety, lifesaving skills, and first aid education. In the 1980s, the club expanded into the competitive arena of sport lifesaving, proudly representing Thanet at national and international events. During this period, the club achieved multiple national
titles in both open water and pool competitions.
In 2006, leadership of the club passed from John Bower to Martin Fossey and Neil Morgan. Under their guidance and with the support of a passionate and dedicated committee Thanet Lifeguard Club has continued to thrive.
About Thanet Lifeguard Cub
Thanet Lifeguard Club is a proud affiliate of The Royal Life Saving Society UK & Ireland (RLSS) a respected charity dedicated to reducing drowning and promoting water safety across communities. We share a common belief: every life is worth saving, and everyone should be able to enjoy water safely whether in, on, or around it.
Founded in 1974, Thanet Lifeguard Club is a non-profit, 100% volunteer-run organisation committed to being a leading force in:
- Water safety education
- Lifesaving and lifeguard training
- Youth development
- Inclusion and equality
We run regular training sessions at Ramsgate Leisure Centre and on various beaches along the beautiful Thanet coastline. These sessions are designed to build essential lifesaving and lifeguarding skills, while also promoting fitness, confidence, and teamwork in a fun and inclusive environment.
Our mission is to empower individuals aged 7 and up with the knowledge and skills to save lives and enjoy water safely. Through our partnership with RLSS UK & Ireland, we offer high-quality training that leads to nationally recognised awards and qualifications, opening doors to careers in lifeguarding and beyond.
We also proudly run a community outreach programme, offering basic first aid, and CPR training to the wider local community.