CHARITIES Lifeworks and Surf Relief UK have been holding surfing events for children with disabilities for the last two years. This year marks their formal partnership with the launch of SurfAble and a fantastic event at Summerleaze Beach, Bude hosted by Big Blue Surf School on Saturday, September 26.

SurfAble delivers one-day events across the UK to introduce youngsters with disabilities to surfing. The project also supports a country-wide network of surf schools, which in turn provide disabled children and young adults with on-going lessons using specialist techniques, adapted buoyancy aids and highly buoyant, tandem 12-foot soft surfboards.

"The SurfAble event hit Summerleaze with a splash," said Lis Leader, Events Director. "It's a privilege to be collaborating with Jon Price and his Big Blue Surf School. The school, a member of the SurfAble network, hosted this event and introduced more than 50 local kids with disabilities to surfing."

Jon Price added: "Surfable is making a real difference to the lives of many disabled and disadvantaged young people in Cornwall. With the help of SurfAble, we're able to hold this fantastic one-day event, as well as to provide subsidised, affordable lessons for disabled children from all along the coast. For many British kids, a trip to Devon or Cornwall may not be possible, so SurfAble's national network of schools provides opportunities much closer to home."

Also 'on board' was SurfAble patron, Maia Norman, renowned fashion designer, motocrosser and surfer girl. Maia not only helped children get the hang of surfing, but she spear-headed some fundraising efforts and raising public awareness of the needs of children who have learning difficulties.

For more information please visit the website http://www.surfable.co.uk">www.surfable.co.uk or contact Lis on 01803 840780 or email [email protected]">[email protected].