CANOE and kayaking firms are calling on families to mess about on the river this summer.

The Marches tourist industry has taken a battering following two wet summers and a major flood.

But a struggling pound and a predicted hot summer could be a godsend – and the Wye has something to fit everyone’s budget.

Daniel Povey has the captain’s seat at River Strokes Kayaking Centre in Hay-on-Wye, and offers everything from afternoon sessions to weeklong courses.

Daniel, a fully qualified teacher started the centre two years ago, and taught the skill in New Zealand.

He says experience is vital before taking to the river, as kayakers must be aware of rapids and must never travel alone.

“People find it a great escape.

When you’re on the river and paddling, you forget about any worries you have,” he said.

“One of my customers even drives from Munich every summer because the Wye is so good.”

Just three per cent of British rivers are fully open to the public, which explains why the Wye is so popular with hire firms. You can almost kayak from the source, it’s largely calm, and passes through some amazing countryside.

“The Wye is a fantastic river with various grades and if kayaking doesn’t appeal, then I can recommend canoeing,” said Daniel. “We’re on good terms around Hay and Glasbury and offer something for everyone.”

When Daniel gets customers who fancy canoeing, he usually sends them to Wye Valley Canoes at Glasbury. There are various hire premises along the river, although most are concentrated at Hay and around Ross-on-Wye.

For more details, call 01497 820568 or visit riverstrokes.co.uk.