FAMILIES stationed at RAF St Mawgan enjoyed a free day of surf lessons and coastal adventure.

Thirty people took part in a beginner-friendly surf session at the annual event held at Fistral Beach, which is organised by Newquay Activity Centre in Fore Street.

Thirty people took part in a beginner-friendly surf session ( )

The initiative forms part of Newquay Activity Centre’s ongoing partnership with the Armed Forces to support RAF St Mawgan adventurous training and family wellbeing.

Rob Barber, the director of Newquay Activity Centre, said: “It’s what we’re all about - getting people outside, building confidence, and helping families connect through the outdoors in a safe and rewarding environment.

“Military families moving to the area have said they have not recognised the amazing opportunities there are for family fun at the beach until they have taken part in the activities.”

Participants were introduced to the basics of surfing in small instructor-led groups ( )

Demand for the event exceeded expectations. Originally capped at 24, the session expanded to 32 after strong interest from families based at the station. Every registered participant arrived, and the beach was buzzing with energy throughout the day.

The session was delivered at no cost by Newquay Activity Centre to welcome new military families to the area and to help to show the families how to enjoy the coast safely.

Families also shared the emotional value of the experience.

The initiative forms part of Newquay Activity Centre’s ongoing partnership with the Armed Forces ( )

Justin Churchill, the community Information organiser at RAF St Mawgan, said: “It is important as it brings families together in a healthy way outdoors on the beach. In an increasingly digital world this is really important.

“Participants were introduced to the basics of surfing in small instructor-led groups. Many were trying the sport for the first time, and several will return later this summer for a follow-up coasteering session which Newquay Activity Centre are delivering for us.”

Newquay Activity Centre is a Help for Heroes registered organisation and regularly delivers both family-focused and structured adventurous training sessions to military units, including activities such as surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, lifeguard training, and survival skills.