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Families of autistic youngsters came together on a Kent beach for the county's first dedicated 'surf camp'.

Conditions were perfect on Saturday as around 35 children took to the waves at Joss Bay, Broadstairs for one-to-one lessons with expert instructors.

The one-day free surf school offered the youngsters a taste of the sport and was a chance for parents to get together. Joss Bay surf school provided the instructors, boards, wetsuits and lunch for the children.

Similar events have being running in the United States for many years.

According to the organisers, the experience of being on a surfboard helps autistic children feel real happiness and connect with others in a way they normally find difficult.

Autism makes social communication tough and many have problems with speech, language and balance.

Organiser Liza Scholefield said: "It was fantastic day, the children loved it. Even when they fell off they came up smiling. It's a big challenge for a lot of these children and an emotional experience for the families watching them.

"We hope to do this again next year and would be very interested to hear from any sponsors."

Sponsors this year include Surf Relief UK, Thanet council and Royal British Legion Industries. The surf school is now offering heavily subsidised lessons for autistic and disabled children, at £20 for a 90-minute one-to-one session.

See www.jossbay.co.uk for more details >>>