Athletes from Retford and District Lifesavers are set to compete against the world’s best in the Inter‑Club Lifesaving World Championships later this year, thanks to a grant from Bassetlaw District Councillors.
The championships will take place in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, from 25 November to 13 December 2026, bringing together around 4,000 to 5,000 athletes from across the globe. The event combines competitive lifesaving sport with simulated emergency response challenges across nine categories.
To help the athletes prepare and compete at the highest level, an £881 Councillor Community Grant awarded by Bassetlaw District Councillors will contribute towards additional training and championship entry fees.
Peter Moyes, Head Coach of Retford and District Lifesavers, said: “We would like to thank the councillors who have donated to support our group and help our young athletes move one step closer to achieving their dreams. This support means the world to us.
“Thanks to this grant, eight dedicated members of Retford and District Lifesavers will now have the incredible opportunity to compete at the World Lifesavers Championships later this year. Their hard work, commitment and passion for the sport have brought them this far, and this funding ensures they can continue to grow, learn and proudly represent our community on the world stage.”
Councillor Carolyn Troop, Ward Member for East Retford South, speaking on behalf of the councillors who contributed, said: “We are incredibly proud to support Retford and District Lifesavers as they help these young athletes take a major step towards achieving their dreams. Their passion, discipline and dedication are truly inspiring, and it’s fantastic to know that our contribution is helping eight competitors attend the World Lifesavers Championships. We wish them every success as they represent Retford on the world stage.”
Councillors who contributed to the grant include Cllr Carolyn Troop and Cllr David Naylor, Ward Members for East Retford South, Cllr Dan Henderson Ward Member for East Retford East, Cllr Harriet Digby, Ward Member for East Retford West and Cllr Hazel Brand, Ward Member for Misterton.
Retford and District Lifesavers has been based at Retford Leisure Centre for over 40 years and meets every Saturday morning from 9am to 11am.
To find out more about Retford and District Lifesavers or how to become a member, visit: https://retfordlifesavers.com/wordpress/
Each Bassetlaw District Councillor is allocated a small annual budget which can be awarded to support community activities within their ward. Councillor grants may support projects relating to sport, culture and heritage, environmental sustainability, social welfare and general community benefit.
Last Updated on Wednesday, May 13, 2026