River and Sea Sense Educating and saving lives in rivers and at sea… Helping youth to ‘live life to the max’ and achieve extraordinary things…
- Chris Turnbull
River And Sea Sense has been set up in memory of 15 year old Christopher Turnbull who drowned at Capel Curig (Lligwy Falls) on 14th August 2006.
Christopher’s close friends “Chris Turnbull’s Barmy Army” spearheaded his mother Debbie to continue the “Water Safety” message.
The website tells the story. “The whole ethos” says Debbie is about saving lives in rivers and at sea, and now with creating Events and FUN days for children of all ages around the region Debbie hopes to Educate children and adults where necessary of the dangers of water..
Emergency Services Days should be a fine example – a tribute to Christopher – managed by Debbie with support of the RNLI – not only has she addressed the water/emergency services safety aspect – but is encouraging youngsters to ‘get involved’ – do a lifesaving course – join the Chris Turnbull’s Barmy Army and get involved with outdoor pursuits and other activities in a SAFE environment.
School visits are now a priority to help educate youngsters. The news section describes the effect already this is having on the local community. Ysgol John Bright has taken Debbie up on her offer; Debbie has spoken to the whole school (approximately 1,300 pupils). A Digital story made with BBC Television and has been shown to tell the story of Chris. The POWER of this alone has had the children awestruck. Three boys one of which almost lost his life in the River Conwy also came to speak to Debbie.
A further project is also developing as a result of this campaign. Implementation of ‘Standard Warning Signs’ and ‘ Public Rescue Equipment’ around our dangerous rivers and beaches. Signage is already being prepared for Capel Curig and is also being considered for 3 other danger spots. Police and Emergency Services welcome this initiative. Say’s Debbie, “I would like to thank all those involed in the meeting we have had to implement this at Capel Curig for their support” It means everything to me. If it makes people think twice by knowing someone lost their life here - surely it will make a difference.
The links are Educational and informative reading – do browse through them.
If you are a sports club, work club or an association involved in helping children to have fun in a safe environment please contact Debbie to be added to this website.
If you would like to contact Debbie for whatever reason or to Join Chris Turnbull’s Barmy Army for ages 5 – 18 – you can join as a single or group or organization, please complete the contact form. For an information pack.
