Hundreds of paddlers set to make a splash as they celebrate life of 'one of the world's best kayakers'
More than 500 friends of one of the world's best kayakers will gather on a north Wales river at the weekend to celebrate his life.
Bren Orton sadly died in Italy in May but the 29-year-old left a remarkable legacy and influence among water sports enthusiasts.
Mr Orton was a regular on the white waters of the River Dee at Llangollen and that is where his friends will be gathering in celebration on Saturday afternoon.
Friend David Bain said people are coming to the North Wales beauty spot from all over the world as a mark of respect to their much loved friend. There will be other events in the US and in Italy as the world remembers the man.
"He was a significant personality in the community and one of the world's best kayakers.
"He was from Warrington but honed his skills in Llangollen and north Wales.
"It was his passion to share his skills and we will be celebrating who Bren was and his contribution to this community."
Mr Orton set the British record for the highest waterfall after plunging 128ft down Big Banana Falls in Mexico. It was reported to be the second highest descent made by a kayaker.
He travelled across the world filming his adventures for social media, saying he loved the sport because it was about “problem solving and the mastering of my fears”.
He began kayaking at the age of nine and his global adventures started at 16 when he paddled on the White Nile in Uganda.