A paddle out is being staged in Newquay to celebrate the life of a British professional surfer who tragically disappeared at sea.

Paddle Out for Arran Strong will be held at North Fistral on Tuesday, August 4 at 6pm.

Arran made many friends in Newquay over the years after regularly competing in surfing events at Fistral Beach.

The 27-year-old is presumed dead after tragically disappearing at sea off the southwest coast of Portugal on Monday, July 27. He went missing roughly one mile offshore near Arrifana while crossing from Monte Clérigo Beach to Carrapateira. Arran was accompanying his long-time coach, José Maria Pyrrait, on a portion of a long-distance stand-up paddleboard journey.

Following an extensive four-day, multi-agency maritime search, the Portuguese National Maritime Authority officially called off the search operations on Thursday, July 30.

Friend Luke Dillon, a former UK and British champion surfer, said: “Join us as we come together to celebrate the life of our dear friend, Arran Strong. Bring your board, your memories, and your love as we paddle out together to honour a life that touched so many.

“For our dear friend and brother Arran Strong, we’d like to show our love and remember someone who touched our lives with his positivity and personality. He is forever in our hearts and we’d like everyone to please join us at North Fistral for a public paddle out for our Azza and Strongy. Fly high brother. We miss you.

“Whether you're joining us on the water or from the shore, everyone is welcome.”