A SURFING event aiming to get people with physical disabilities into the sport was deemed a huge success.

Jack Patching, adaptive pathway manager at Surf England, organised the fully booked event at Shaka Surf on Branksome.

On September 15, Bournemouth was the final stop for the para-surfing roadshow, which also stopped at five other locations across the UK.

Jack said: "We've had an absolutely amazing time; everybody has loved the experience.

"We've been very lucky with the weather and the feedback has been great.

"The waves have been small, but sometimes that's a good thing because it's ideal to have a fun and save environment for people to give it a go for the first time."

Specialised surf equipment including beach wheelchairs adapted surf boards were on hand to accommodate people with a wide range of disabilities.

The volunteers were all experienced surfers, and underwent a training course with information about adaptive surfing enabling the instructors to share their knowledge with people trying the sport.

(Image: NQ)

Jack said: "It's not the easiest sport to make accessible. We haven't said no to anybody surfing in four years regardless of how complex it is and we're getting to a point where the equipment is progressing, knowledge is progressing and that's why we're trying to stay ahead of the game."

He added: "I have really enjoyed the sense of community, especially in Bournemouth.

"We've had so many volunteers giving up their weekend to help facilitate people into the water and local surfers come down and show their support."

Jack gave his thanks to Shaka Surf who hosted Surf England and provided boards and equipment to make the day possible.

He also thanked the surf clothing company Salt Rock who sponsored the Para surfing roadshow.

Mark Reeves, founder of Shaka Surf, added: "The para road show is such a great idea.

"Seeing their faces when they get on a wave is so inspiration. Everyone deserves a chance to catch a wave, surfing makes you feel amazing."