Up to the NEC in deep water

Up to the NEC in deep water

This weekend, Dive 96, Europe's biggest show for scuba diving, takes place at the NEC in Birmingham. As well as finding out about opportunities to visit coral reefs from Indonesia to Israel, Egypt to Antigua; you can also learn about underwater photography and conservation work currently under progress. There will also be an opportunity to scare yourself with the prospect of free diving - diving without the use of scuba equipment.

Beginners can try out the sport by kitting up and plunging into the shallows at the nearby Metropole Hotel where they'll receive free advice from professional instructors. Entrance: pounds 7; (children under 14, pounds 1.50). For more details call 0181-977 9878.