Royal Yachting Association (RYA) recognition has been granted to Conningbrook Lakes Sailing Centre located at Conningbrook Country Park in Ashford.

Started in October 2015, the Centre recently passed its first RYA inspection and has been granted RYA Training Centre status.

Courses are offered for children aged eight upwards, youth and adults in dinghy sailing, as well as powerboat courses for those who would like to help with the safety boat. Regular club sailing is offered on Sunday afternoons with courses running mainly in holiday time.

Supported by Ashford Borough Council, Conningbrook Lakes Sailing Centre encourages local participation in the sport of sailing for residents of all ages.

East Kent Yachting Association Chairman Helen Hofmann said: “RYA Training Centre recognition shows Conningbrook Lakes Sailing Centre offers qualified instruction with monitored safety procedures, ensuring we are providing both a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

“We are delighted to have gained the recognition and can now issue RYA certificates to those attending RYA courses.”

If you would like more information about sailing at Conningbrook Lakes, please call 07910123259 or visit the website www.cinqueportssailing.org