Stand-Up Paddle craze comes to county thanks to surf lover Carys
It is a water sport currently sweeping the world - and now it has made its way to the sleepy rivers of Shropshire.
Stand-up Paddle has become so popular across the globe it could even become an Olympic sport.
Carys John has brought the craze back to Bridgnorth and has set up her own business to help promote it.
"It certainly drew lots of attention from bemused onlookers enjoying the peace and tranquillity of our beautiful River Severn," said Miss John.
"Stand up paddle, or SUP, is the fastest growing water sport in the world and is currently making a bid for inclusion in the next Olympic programme.
Miss John, with a background in travel and tourism and a passion for water sports and adventure, said she saw SUP as the perfect opportunity to combine her talents and experience.
Having worked seasonally in Cornwall and Portugal with the Association of Surf Instructors, she set up SupAdventureUK, which is now based in the heart of Shropshire.
"The sport is said to derive from a traditional form of Hawaiian surfing but I was keen to introduce the sport to the UK's inland community," she said.
"A paddle board is basically an oversize surfboard that you stand on and propel with a long single bladed paddle.
"As a sport it is accessible to everyone no matter what their age or level of fitness is.
"SUP is the board sport for any body of water, from leisurely family paddles on tranquil lakes and rivers, to the exhilaration of downwind paddling on the ocean.
"Our teaching programme places much emphasis on water safety, health and fitness, and we are really keen to get as many youngsters involved as possible."
The sport has been backed by Energize Shropshire and the Telford & Wrekin County Sports Partnership.
Miss John will also apply to run lessons under the Sportivate scheme once she has found a suitable area of water.
"I am currently in discussions with Severn Trent Water in an attempt to secure a lake in Telford to use as our base," she said.
"The fluctuating water levels of the River Severn mean conditions are often unsuitable for beginners.
SupAdventureUK is partnered with a SUP School in the Algarve, Portugal. For further visit www.supadventure.co.uk or email info@supadventure.co.uk
