POMPEY YOUNGSTERS ON A CREST OF A WAVE

Youngsters from Portsmouth are on the crest of a wave thanks to a partnership between two local businesses.

Southern Water and Portsmouth Watersports Centre, located off the Eastern Road opposite Morrisons supermarket, are working together to offer young people in the city the opportunity to get out on the water and learn how to sail in Langstone Harbour.

As well as teaching sailing and water safety, the course also helps to develop team working, leadership and motivational skills to help boost their personal development and prepare them for future training and employment.

The course was part-funded by Southern Water so it could be offered at a heavily reduced rate.

Geoff Loader, Director of Communications at Southern Water, visited the youngsters during the week-long course. He said: “It is fantastic to be able to give young people the opportunity to take part in an activity like sailing that is not only great fun but also teaches them many important skills that will set them up for later life.  It also gives them a chance to enjoy the wonderful coastline that is on their doorstep.”

Danny Churcher, General Manager at Parkwood Community Leisure, the company that runs the watersports centre, said: “This is a great example of how partnerships between local businesses can be developed to benefit the local community. These young people would be unlikely to afford a course of this type without the support provided by Southern Water and it is a great opportunity for them to develop their skills and confidence.”

Thomas, who attended for the week, said: “It’s been an exciting time especially in the water.”

Matt added: “Thank you Southern Water and Portsmouth Watersports Centre, it’s been really cool.”

For previous Portsmouth updates, click here.