Leaving the British military to open a dive centre on the beach.
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At 34 years old, and after dedicating 12 years of my life to the Royal Navy, I felt the call for a new chapter in my career. At the age of 22, I embarked on the challenging journey to Lympstone to undergo Royal Marine Commando training—a daunting yet transformative experience. Those gruelling days of recruit training instilled in me a profound belief: no task is unachievable with relentless determination and hard work.
Following four years of rigorous training and numerous deployments and exercises, I found myself craving a fresh challenge. It was during a deployment in the Middle East that I first encountered a team of Royal Navy mine clearance divers, equipped with technical diving gear and explosives. Intrigued and inspired, I wasted no time in submitting my transfer request the very next day.
The path to becoming a Royal Navy mine clearance diver proved to be one of the most arduous military training courses globally. Endless hours submerged underwater, mastering the use of rebreathers, surface supplied gear, and scuba equipment, moulded us into a blend of men and fish. It was here that I grasped the inherent danger and profound rewards of diving.
Over my eight years in the dive branch, I assumed various roles—from mentoring novice divers to collaborating with UK Special Forces on clandestine training exercises (tales for another time, perhaps). The Royal Navy gifted me invaluable life skills and forged lifelong friendships. Yet, once again, I felt the pull for change.
My passion for the ocean and entrepreneurial spirit beckoned me towards a new endeavour: opening a scuba diving centre on the coast. Despite facing scepticism and criticism for leaving behind a well-paid, secure naval career to pursue my dream of a humble shed-based scuba school on the beach, I remained resolute in my vision. And indeed, the reality far exceeded my expectations.
Nestled on a picturesque Cornish beach, with the vast ocean just a stone's throw away, our dive centre flourished. As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, brimming with exciting plans and adventures, I invite you to stay tuned for the journey ahead.