Camp organisers that showed commitment to protecting young people from the threat of skin cancer have been recognised by the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre.

The charity said that 25 camps received SunSmart accreditation, while 11 after-school programmes are on course to earn their accreditation this month.

Azuree Williams, of the BCHC, who manages the programme, said: “It’s about making sure our youth across the island are sun safe while they are carrying on their outdoor summer activities.

“We ensure that staff at summer camps and programmes have free training and provide free emergency sunscreen, emergency hats and sunglasses so that when a camper shows up without, they are prepared.”

Ms Williams said that the number of camps taking part in the programme was slightly lower than normal, adding that some of the newer summer camps may not be aware of the programme and what it offers.

Established in 2001, SunSmart aims to prevent harmful sun exposure by teaching safe outdoor practices.

Organisations must attend a 90-minute workshop, submit a SunSmart strategy and receive a grade of at least 70 per cent by the BCHC to be accredited.

Recipients this year included Awesome Kids, Quality Gymnastics, U Sail Castle Harbour, Summer Wonderland Sports and Fun Camp, Planet Math, Camp Xplosion, the Hungry Goat Summer Camp, Adventure Daze, the Bermuda Cricket Board, Endeavour, the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club, Bloomfield Summer Camp, Wee Care a Lot, Kamp Koolz and SwimSam.

The accreditation is valid through Summer 2026, although organisations must seek re-accreditation next June to maintain their status.