Scuba Republic in Roxton, Bedford

This review is about "Scuba Republic" based in the Roxton Garden Centre in Bedfordshire.

I had two dive cylinders that were out of test (both 232 Bar), I took them to Scuba Republic to have them hydrostatically tested. The fact that they never seemed to be open should have been a warning... I was promised a 1 week turn-around. Sadly, after going back to the shop to pick up my cylinders on the Saturday, I found they were closed, so I went back later in the day to find they were still closed, then, as they are not open Monday or Tuesday, I had to go back Wednesday, to find they were still closed. There was a note in the window saying they were sorry, but were closed due to illness and had a contact number (OK, it happens....But over a week!?). As I was calling the number the owner turned up. A surly looking man with a miserable attitude.

He informed me he had tested the cylinders but they had not been filled and asked me to come back the next day. As I had been there 3 times already (a 20 Mile round trip each time), I was reluctant to go away again, and I said I'd just take my cylinders (I'd get them done elsewhere). So, the man then proceeded to charge me the £60.00 FULL test fees, plus he claimed he had replaced the valve on 1 cylinder because it was "broken", even though both valves were working fine when I left them. I ended up paying £86.00 to get my cylinders back, and then had to take them somewhere else and pay another £13.00 to get them filled, coupled with the costs of fuel and filling elsewhere, this was a very expensive exercise. I also believe that the final fill should be part of the test, but as this was not done I can't even be sure the hydrostatic test was done. Would you trust this man with your cylinders, but more scarily your regulators, and possibly your life?? I won't be going there again!

I have been using Scuba Republic for quite a while now for training, kit, servicing and trips and never had a problem :)

They are a great team with a vast knowledge of SCUBA and are not afraid to advise, on a training front they are the only place I want to be trained by as they are very good at instructing and are not afraid to push additional practice until you have mastered the skills required, they will teach any age and ensure you are safe to dive.

Any of my kit that been serviced there has been all done with no problems :), having read a previous review I wonder if there are two Scuba places as am amazed at what was written :/ I guess being a sole trader dive centre is quite demanding on time with a team so dedicated to teaching and diving but give them a try as you wont regret it :)

I for one am happy to use Scuba Republic and will continue to train and dive with them :)

Pete

Excellent service on my cylinders and regulators, work completed on time and everything spot on, cudn't be happier!

Would recommend Scuba Republic to anyone looking for a great dive and service centre :)