Freindship sounds good , any ideas who to contact for surf lessons in the town??

No need for lessons... Just get yourself a board and decent wetsuit and get out there... There isn't a huge amount someone can teach you as far as surfing goes... Its just a case of paddling out, catching a wave and standing up!! Thers nothing at all technical about it. It is however pretty difficult so the only way to get any good is practise practise practise.

Take it easy out there of course and don't go out if its too big until you know what you are doing... Mind you, if its that big you won't get out the back unless you have a fair idea waht you are doing... If there are waves there will be plenty of other people out in the water with you... Even in the middle of winter.

See you out there some time.

Al.

If you are just out there having a go then someone is bound to give you a hand. I remember struggling with positioning then Ric Rhys gave me some tips, it makes it much easier. Especially when you can't get to the beach very often.