Article by Ceri Knapgate

"Cardigan Bay Watersports is THE water sports centre for mid-Wales where you can Sail, Kayak, Windsurf and learn to use a Powerboat in the picturesque bay at New Quay, Ceredigion.

The centre is an initiative of the New Quay community development group, Cei Dev Ltd. As there are no similar facilities available between Pembrokeshire and the Menai Straits, the centre was conceived as a major part of the New Quay development programme to help with regeneration and to provide facilities for both local residents and visitors alike. Funded by grants from the European Union Objective 1 Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Sport Lot, the centre opened its doors in July 2003. It operates each year between April and October.

We specialise in providing water based recreational activities for all ages from 8 years old upwards. These can be informal 'taster' or 'improver' sessions or more formal training courses leading to a range of graded certificates of competence suitable for beginners through to more advanced levels. The centre is licensed by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA) and is a recognised Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Training Centre.

Our activities are open to all and we are pleased to welcome individuals, school groups, clubs and societies whether locally based or visiting the area on holiday. We also cater for business 'away-days' and team building events as well as birthdays and other parties for children and adults.

Our friendly approach and the quality of our activities have been welcomed, and remarked upon by our users, many of whom are returning year after year to increase their skills or just to enjoy the experience of being on the water.

During the winter 'closed season' the centre has successfully collaborated with the local yacht club to organise a winter 'Frost-bite' series of races open to locals and sailing clubs in the area.

Now in our fourth season, Cardigan Bay Watersports has made steady progress towards financial independence and is in the process of becoming an independent company with charitable status. Cardigan Bay Watersports is looking to the future and to developing its activities further to meet the needs of its users.

Ceri Knapgate, centre manager and chief instructor, says: 'I have worked in many centres in the UK and abroad but none of them have quite the unique combination of factors that make New Quay the special place it is to experience water sports. We have a beautiful coastline, a safe bay in which to operate, dolphins, sea birds and other wild life, dedicated, friendly and well trained staff, all combining to provide a memorable time on the water, whether you chose to sail, powerboat, kayak or windsurf'.

For full details and booking information see our web-site: www.cardiganbaywatersports.org.uk or e-mail to: info@cardiganbaywatersports.org.uk"

Article by Ceri Knapgate