30th July 2007

Well we've had the surf but we've also had the rain and wind with it. I haven't minded too much as some of the sheltered spots have been working but for the surf and tourist industry of south Wales, Devon and Cornwall this weather has lead to a bad year financially. Surf schools have had up to 50% less bookings and all of the shops I have spoken to have also been having a bad season.  We can't complain too much though as flooding hasn't been too much of an issue for us unlike most of the country.

Ironically we had a lovely day for our meeting with Chris at Surfers Against Sewage to discuss their latest report on Climate Change.  The interview can be seen in this months film. Unfortunately one of the SAS's key concerns of combined sewage and storm drains being unable to cope with increasingly heavy rainfall seems to be a horrible reality for lots of British people this month.  Chris also gave us some suggestions on how to make our lives more energy efficient and therefore better for the environment.

On the beach at St. Agnes that day we met up with pro surfer Sarah Bentley and had a chat about how that surf and weather conditions have been down in Cornwall over the last winter.

I've just got myself a new board a Viking 6ft2" which goes like a dream but like nearly all board it's made from foam and fiberglass - not the most environmentally friendly of materials but there aren't many other options out there for those who want an affordable high performance board.  Next week Sarah and I are going to meet  Chris Hines from the Eden Project and test his new eco-boards made from sustainable natural materials. 

Surf wise August is renowned for being the flattest month of the year and so far the surf reports aren't looking good. Fingers crossed there'll be some waves later in the month for the Rip Curl Boardmasters in Newquay and for us to test the eco-board on.