A retired pastor who is now a qualified paddle craft instructor is offering free lessons in Sidmouth this summer.
Newton Poppleford resident Alistair McKenna, 69, used to pastor the Emmanual Baptist Church and has also been a missionary in Japan.
He discovered the benefits of kayaking and paddle boarding after seeing at first hand how much people loved being out on the water.
Two years ago he was helping to entertain a 12-year-old foster child and needed to find some activities she would enjoy.
He said: “I suggested a day at Sidmouth and hiring kayaks. This was followed by an ice cream at a famous place in Sidmouth.
“At the end of the day the young girl said it had been the best day of her life so far.
“There was another opportunity to take a trainee nurse out kayaking who needed support in her family circumstances. At the end of the day her comments touched my heart and I had to hold back tears.
“I thought to myself that if I had my own kayak, I could make a difference in many more lives.”
He trained and qualified as an instructor with Paddle UK and offered his first classes in Sidmouth last year.
He said: “I’ve given free lessons so far to home-school children, special needs children, a Japanese trainee paramedic, a nurse from Bournemouth and local adults who live in Sidmouth.
“The longest trip was to a deserted beach near Ladram Bay, where a picnic was provided and appreciated by two adults.
“This year in Sidmouth things have already started and bookings are coming in for the half-term holidays.”
During the free sessions, which are also taking place at Exeter Canal this year, Alistair will teach you how to use a kayak or stand-up paddle board and then take you out on an accompanied journey.
Sessions last around two hours and are available between May and September for adults, children aged nine and over and groups of up to four people.
All equipment needed, including kayaks, paddle boards, buoyancy aids, dry bags and phone cases will be provided.
Children and adults must be able to swim, and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
To find out more or make a booking, call Alistair on 07369 240990.
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