And when I say "beginner", I really mean it! I went bodyboarding for the first time in Cornwall a few weeks ago and I loved it.

Now I'm back in the north-east, Gateshead area, without a wetsuit, body board, or any clue how to get started locally! Stuff I don't know:

- Good beginner kit, low budget
- Where to go locally
- How do I know when it's likely to be good bodyboarding conditions?
- How late in the year can you keep going? Obviously deep winter isn't going to be very comfortable

Any and all advice appreciated

There used to be a surf shop near the aquarium in Tynemouth but I haven't a clue if its still there I haven't been up that way in quite a few years.

Found it on the net http://www.tynemouthsurf.co.uk so I guess they are still there.