THE managing director of a Broom-based lifesaving firm has helped to float new safety standards on swimming aids throughout Europe.

Andrew Ebben, of The Institute of Qualified Lifeguards (IQL), the awarding body responsible for lifeguard qualifications from Lifesavers, The Royal Life Saving Society UK, was chosen to chair a European committee to develop a continental code for safety standards on swimming equipment.

The group's conclusions have been recommended to the European Union and are expected to be announced later this year (2002).

The standards will set design and construction benchmarks that will be recognised by swimming aid manufacturers across Europe, from the welding of seams on armbands, to the formulation of swimming floats.

Mr Ebben said: "It is estimated that the UK indulges in between 250-300 million swims each year and perhaps a majority of these people are children.

"Yet, there has been a disregard across Europe towards research into swimming aids. Until now.

"I've been delighted to lead this work and it has been valuable to highlight our knowledge to our European partners."

Lifesavers has just appointed Adrian Lole to the new position of national development manager.

A former lifeguard, Mr Lole's remit will be to increase the charity's advisory influence and champion its fundraising.