Have a Go at Watersports Day

(Date of issue: Monday, 7 June 2010)

Local families are being invited to test out their water wings this Sunday (13 June) at Talkin Tarn Country Park.

A ‘Have a Go at Watersports Day’ will be staged on the tarn between 10.30am and 4.30pm. The free event will allow visitors to try their hand at canoeing, kayaking, sailing, rowing and model boating.

The opportunity to find out more about local water-sports clubs and how you can get involved will also be available. Representatives from local rowing, sailing, canoeing, sea cadets and triathlete clubs will all be on hand throughout the event. State of the art canoeing gear will also be on sale from Brookbank Canoes who will also have their new stand-up paddle boards available for people to have a go on.

Cllr Ray Bloxham, Portfolio holder for Local Environment, said:

“The tarn has traditionally been used for recreation since at least the middle of the 1800s. The boathouses still exist along with the rowing club, which was founded in 1859. It is an ideal location for watersports and we want to continue this long and established history. We encourage local residents to come along and join in the fun.”

To guarantee taking part in your chosen water sport, bookings can be made in advance of the event, by telephoning 016977 3129. Alternatively bookings can also be made on the day of the event, from 10am in front of the Boathouse Tearoom. These will be on first come first served basis.

The majority of activities are free of charge. Most activities are suitable for anyone aged eight years old and over with a limited number of activities available for younger children. Sessions will run in 45 minute slots.

Those wishing to take part are advised to bring along some old clothes, a rain jacket, a towel and change of clothes. Buoyancy aids, hot showers and changing rooms are all available at the Tarn.