UNDERWATER enthusiasts dived into history when they donned traditional outfits for an unusual exercise.

While they often go diving using modern equipment, members of the British Sub-aqua Club's 978 branch felt they hadn't fully appreciated their sport's rich heritage.

So when staff at Middlesbrough's TWI Underwater Centre offered them the chance to borrow items dating back to the 1890s, they jumped at it.

They learned how to operate the antiquated equipment, which was supplied by the Historical Diving Society, at the centre's base on Saturday.

Jim Sheppard, manager of the centre, which is the largest of its kind in Europe, said it was an enjoyable day for all those involved.

"The aim was to provide experience of very old pieces of equipment," he said.

"In those days the air was pumped by hand using a manually-operated machine."

He added: "It was an excellent day and everyone really enjoyed taking part."