DORSET is set to host the European Championships for a popular watersport this summer.

Swanage is set to host the N1SCO European Championships over the weekend of June 10 and June 11.

N1SCO is the largest stand-up paddleboard racing class in the UK,

The competition sees all those taking part compete on an identical 'Naish One' paddleboard of the same design to keep the racing both fair and affordable to everyone and the organisers say the end result purely being a product of the paddler’s skill and ability.

The event will see paddlers from around the world take part with teams from Switzerland, Italy, France, Holland, Germany and even Japan and Australia expected to be among the 150-strong field.

Alex Tobutt from Naish in the UK said: "We are chuffed to bring the European Championships to the UK. N1SCO has gone from strength to strength in the last couple of years.

"Stand up paddle boarding is the fastest growing water sport in the world so to showcase this in the UK is fantastic."

Organisers says Swanage was chosen for its sheltered waters, golden sands and town centre full of character.

Mr Tobutt said: "Swanage bay is fantastic, sheltered, safe and with a beach that paddlers and their family can enjoy.

"It really is a postcard spot that has everything we need to run the championships whilst families can also enjoy a weekend on the coast."

Racing will take place from outside The View restaurant and Mowlem Theatre, with spectators will be able to line the esplanade to enjoy a grandstand view of the competition.

Competitors will take part in three races, all of which are different lengths including 100m sprints, a 500m and a 10km race.

Caroline Finch, Chairman of Swanage Town Council tourism committee said: "Swanage Bay is a fantastic venue for the Paddleboard European Championship.

"We can’t wait to welcome competitors from far and wide for this exciting new event to our lovely town. We are delighted to host this event for 2017."

It is not the first time a major paddleboarding contest has come to Dorset, with the 2015 National Championships held in Weymouth.

Entry for the event goes live in March. For more information visit facebook.com/NaishUK/

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