Guernsey Press

New group seeks to promote good beach etiquette

RESPECT, appreciate and enjoy is the message from Guernsey’s Outdoor Charter, which is hoping to prevent overcrowding at beaches such as Vazon through the promotion of good beach etiquette in a post-Covid-19 world.

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Guernsey Outdoor Charter Group co-chairman Brian Aplin at Vazon. The group is promoting good beach etiquette post-Covid-19 now the beaches are getting busier. (Picture by Peter Frankland, 28391640)

Brian Aplin, co-chairman of the Guernsey Outdoor Charter Group, which encourages its members to respect one another, protect the natural environment and stay safe while enjoying the outdoors, said Covid-19 had seen many more people using the beach for activities and he wanted to ensure it was done safely.

‘It is wonderful to see such an interest in outdoor activities,’ he said.

‘Guernsey is a small place with a large, active population so popular spots are likely to get busy over summer.

‘It is important we respect other users and take responsibility to learn our sports’ best code of practice.’

This includes taking a moment to review Guernsey Surf Club’s surf zone etiquette display at the slipway entrance to the beach, in addition to checking the tide conditions before entering the water.

Now that the Surf School at Vazon has re-opened, and kayaks and other equipment can be rented from various businesses, Mr Aplin said many people were taking full advantage of the summer, with shops reporting an increase in recreational equipment sales.

He said the benefits of this were a rise in popularity of a blue economy – a sustainable use of ocean resources impacting on economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystem.

‘There is a huge growth in the blue economy post-Covid-19 and in active water sports for all ages,’ he said.

‘The spin-offs in terms of physical and mental wellbeing are substantial.

‘As ever, there are some pinch points and we want to promote a concern about the risks of overcrowding at Vazon in particular.

‘It is so nice seeing so many people in the water and we hope we can work towards keeping everyone safe and happy under the Guernsey Together banner.’

. Anyone new to surfing or paddle boarding who would like more information can contact the Guernsey Surf Club via email tim@timgaudion.co.uk.

. The group brings together conservation organisations and outdoor adventure activity providers in an effort to reduce their environmental impact and showcase Guernsey as destination that promotes sustainability. To become a member or for information, email Emily Atkinson on aclms@gov.gg.