From the earliest days Thistle divers were known for their adventurous approach with diving largely being carried out in West and East of Scotland coastal waters Our branch was very quick to become involved in courses and events throughout Scotland and we were very strongly represented at the legendary Perth SCOTFED conferences of 1976 and 1978 Presentations were made by both SSAC and BSAC and largely due to the influence of Phil Rodgers, the then Scottish coach we became branch number 783 of BSAC early in 1976 As our training had always been largely based on BSAC practices several members quickly gained advanced diving grades and instructor qualifications