A GROUP of York divers are celebrating finding treasure - though they didn't have to plunge into any uncharted waters to find it.

The Excalibur Sub Aqua Club, which is based in the city, has gained a £2,500 grant from the National Lottery's Awards for All programme, and this has been used to purchase four scuba diving sets and vital oxygen first aid equipment.

Club spokesperson Julia Carling said: "This award is fantastic news for our club, we couldn't have been happier if we'd found sunken treasure.

"The four new scuba sets we have been able to buy mean Excalibur can now offer up to 12 York people the opportunity to train with us and experience the thrill of exploring Britain's amazing underwater world of wrecks, reefs and sea life."

Training courses start at the end of September, and anyone interested in learning to dive can find out more on the Excalibur website at www.excalibur.ukdiver.com, or by telephoning David Leon on 01904 631650.

Before signing up for the full training course, Excalibur is offering York residents the chance to try scuba diving in the safety of a swimming pool. The hour-long session costs only £5 and includes a poolside briefing followed by a dive with an experienced instructor.

You must be at least 18 years old and sign a medical declaration. The try-dive sessions take place in York on Sunday evenings during September. To book a place, telephone David Leon on 01904 631650.

Updated: 10:24 Saturday, August 31, 2002