Watching the Outer Reef Surf School in action at Freshwater West brought back all the memories of first learning to surf there myself. The group for the day were The Dolphins from Tenby Swimming Club and with every wave, they were getting better and the rewards were written with smiles across their faces. They were experiencing that wonderful feeling of anticipation as the wave approaches and the exhilaration as they accelerated to the shore.

Dean Gough, who runs Outer Reef with his wife Emma, started with a beachside introductory talk on water safety, catching waves and controlling the board. The Tiki boards and now also Bic boards used by Outer Reef are lightweight and large enough to enable the more adventurous to be standing up on their first session. Equipped with these and their full wetsuits The Dolphins were quick to hit the water and make the most of their lesson. The waves on the expansive golden sands of Freshwater are the most consistent in Wales and make this the ideal spot for surfing training. When the surf is too big for Freshwater West, then beaches such as nearby Manorbier and Tenby South Beach are more sheltered and Outer Reef will collect and deliver you to the right beach for the best surf conditions that day. Dean is not only well qualified in surf teaching and lifesaving but probably knows these waters better than anyone else in the vicinity. He has surfed the giant waves of Maderia and has rated well in a number of surf competitions. This and his friendly nature has given him a reputation that extends well beyond Pembrokeshire. His enthusiasm for surfing extends to his teaching and guarantees him a captive audience.

If you would like to learn to surf, contact Outer Reef on 01646-680070,

visit www.outerreefsurfschool.com or pick up a brochure from your local surf shop

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