Chris is right to have a good moan, as is everybody else, get it off your chest.

But moaning doesn't really acheive much. What can we actually do to protect not just our sport and the location, but also those who buy kit not knowing what they do and also the members of the public who wander the public areas where we play with no real idea of what we are up to or what danger they could be in if they try to assist?

This is a pretty hot topic all over the UK right now, especially now the sun is bringing out the beachgoers. The only answer as I see it is education, in it's many forms. That will take some effort and possibly some funding and the only way to sort it is as an organised group or club.

Is it not time we formalised? This site is great for communicating with each other and I think forms a valuable base from which to grow. But formalised a bit would give us a common voice to the authorities and demonstrate that the bulk of us are actually reasonably responsible as well as give the newbies a point of contact and guidance. We could even raise some funds for signs and maybe a view fun activities like comps or beach barbies.

Any thoughts from the world out there? Suggestions and proposals eagerly anticipated!!

it has been mentioned although if we form a club in wales there is alot of objective 1 money from europe we could apply for. i wouldn't mind a new best hellfish. no make that three

did somebody mention a free hellfish??

seriously, I'm sure it would be a worthy venture, could only help prolong the use of kites at borth, which is what we are all after.

if we do go club stylee, i might be able to sort funding for signage etc, just let me know..

trouble is as soon as you put signage up etc then some-one becomes liable, and ultimatley the backlash would go to the council and they would probably just ban it as its easier

[Edited on 9-5-2005 by col123]

Trust me Ive tried every thing to get objective 1 dosh for kites, ( and a jet ski), they just aint paying up. Swines!!!!!!

I do think signs are a good idea if things are looking dodgy. At least by covering your backs, it'll help if any thing does go wrong. Were lucky this side that Aberdyfi council are a sound bunch. I also think that the best imediate way around things is "self policing". ( I did ask the council if I could have money towards a blue and white kite with sirens and beacons, but they also werent having it)!!!!

But if you see some one messing about, pull them up on it.

the North wales club out of llandudno issues a small membership card. this is only issued after proof of a valid third party insurance certificate; ie british buggy club etc a nominal one off fee covers the cost of the laminated card.
a great way to self police and to ensure that everyone on the beach has valid third party insurance in case of an accident to others(just like we all have ,dont we?).
no responsible person would mind being asked to produce a valid third party insurance certificate before using the beach for the first time, or being advised of the safe area to launch; as already put forward by Chris - beyond the small brick building.
just an idea

Sounds like a plan!

From the outside looking in, between them the Borth Massive the Aberdovey Posse already have enough members and plenty more who would be willing to join to form an official club, including those with the relevant qualifications to take up the "thankless" positions of responsibility chairman/treasurer/secretary......

The BKSA have a couple of useful pages on clubs.

www.kitesurfing.org

ie. Existing ones - vacancies for regional officers (one of which is the West Midlands) & how to set up an affiliated BKSA club.

From reading the forums it sounds like theres enough interest, but, as with all clubs it takes someone to "take the helm", do the ground work and set the ball rolling.

Anyone out there...............

[Edited on 14-5-2005 by Encee]