South Shields Surf School has given youngsters with life-limiting conditions the chance to try surfing for the first time thanks to its specially adapted chair board.
The popular surf school, run by Nick Jones, has the only board of its kind in the North East, which aims to make surfing an inclusive activity for people of different abilities. Youngsters with life-limiting conditions from St Oswald's Hospice in Gosforth were among the first to be able to try out the special board during a surfing lesson on Thursday, August 18.
The new board enabled some of the children to have a go at surfing for the first time and create lasting memories with their loved ones. “We were so pleased when St Oswald’s Hospice approached us as coincidentally we were looking into adaptive surfing at the time," surf school owner Nick said.
"They came down and jumped in with us and it’s taken off from there! Now we have the chair board, we’re over the moon with how it’s going.
"Each week has got better and better as we get used to using the equipment and the kids love it. The result of this is that it’s changed what’s available for the people of the North East."
The surf school worked with Beach Access North East, Peacocks Medical Group and East Coast Fibreglass Supplies to create the adapted chair board.
Joss Thompson, who is the matron of the children and young adults service at St Oswald's Hospice, said: "We’re so thankful to South Shields Surf and the amazing team of experts who made the board – they’ve all been so generous with their time and skills and made this dream possible."
She added: "The chair board has opened up the opportunity to surf for some of our older children and young adults too. It’s given them such a sense of achievement and we’ve seen some real progress over the sessions this summer.”
Keira Moore, age 12, from Jarrow, was one of the youngsters who took to the chair board for the first time.
Mum, Terri said: "Keira’s not been able to surf because she’s got bad circulation but the staff have done everything possible to make sure she could try. She even had two wet suits on to keep her warm.
“What made it even more special was that Keira had her big brother, Louis, who is 14, surfing alongside her too. Keira was all smiles as she was looking over from the chair board to see Louis standing up on his surf board.
"It was the first time they’ve been able to do an activity like this at the same time. It was brilliant seeing them together.
"They loved it and they’re not really ever going to get another experience like it."
To find out more about St Oswald’s Hospice services and how you can support or donate visit: www.stoswaldsuk.org/get-involved
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