HEREFORDSHIRE Council's Youth Services have been making a splash at schools as they tour the county raising the profile of water sports.

The outdoor education department is promoting canoeing, kayaking and sailing programmes on offer throughout the summer holidays.

All programmes are accredited six-week courses, with everyone who takes part working towards a basic entry-level qualification.

Once the six-week course has been completed, the students can attend a regular club night and work their way towards further qualifications.

All courses are run from either the Canoe Centre in Hereford or Bodenham Lake.

"We already work with groups from Scout and Guide groups to the Connexions service and school sports initiatives," said David McEneaney, the council's outdoor education development worker.

"We also work with young people with special needs and have disabled access boats.

"These sports aren't just a way to have fun and relax, they're also great for developing personal and social skills.

"Not only do we see the young people gain confidence but they also learn to take responsibility for their actions and become good team players."

For details, call 01432 260212, or e-mail dmceneaney@herefordshire.gov.uk