WEYMOUTH windsurfer Kevin Greenslade got his new year off to the best start possible by landing a top award in recognition of his achievements last season.

Greenslade scooped the UK Windsurfing Association’s Windsurfer of the Year accolade having been nominated for the prize alongside four other star names in the sport.

The winner of the prestigious national trophy was determined by a public vote.

“It’s come as quite a surprise, to be honest,” he said. “I am absolutely blown away to have been voted the UK Windsurfing Association Windsurfer of the Year.

“I would like to congratulate the other nominees on their achievements during 2015 and am sure they will all go onto bigger and better successes in 2016.

“Thanks to my sponsors Gaastra/ Tabou, F-hot fins and the Official Test Centre (OTC) for making it possible for me to compete from year to year.

“I would like to thank my family, friends and girlfriend for all the support through the year.

“I would also like to add a thank you to the Dorset Echo and readers for their support and the votes cast for me.”

Greenslade was acknowledged for his incredible performances in speed sailing.

At Weymouth Speed Week, he powered through the event to record the top speed overall, making it his fifth British title.

Tris Best of the OTC, one of Greenslade’s sponsors, said: “Kev is a big, friendly giant, a very fast big, friendly giant.

“He is super chilled and relaxed on the exterior, which belies his extremely competitive nature.

“He has claimed the British speed title so many times now that he must have lost count, and has also been in the running for the national slalom title for several seasons.

“He’s an inspiration to all the emerging young talent down at the OTC and does a lot to mentor them on the water.”

Promising young windsurfer Tom Wells said he was “really pleased that Kev had won the award as he had been up against some really tough competition”.

Wells added: “I am so grateful to Kev for all his help and support over the years which has encouraged me to progress in windsurfing.”

Greenslade is very much looking forward to another successful season in 2016.