Surfing offered as school sport

It is hoped the initiative will create Scottish surfing champions

Pupils in Moray are to be given the chance to take up surfing alongside more traditional school sports such as football, rugby and hockey.

The lesson will be offered to children at Buckie High School and some primary schools in the area.

Specialist equipment and clothing will be provided, and sessions will be held at the sheltered Sandend bay, where conditions are good for beginners.

It is hoped that the initiative will help develop future surfing champions.

Anna Sandeman, one of Moray Council's active schools coordinators behind the venture, said: "Some children aren't attracted to conventional sports. Anyone can do it as long as the children have confidence in the water.

Scottish champions

"There are people who are coming from all over the world to go surfing in Scotland because the waves are so good, but we only have one Scottish competitor.

"Hopefully from this initiative getting children to start surfing in Moray, in a few years we'll have some more competing with champions from all over the world - get some more home-grown talent. That would be great."