Joining Requirements

Prospective members who already hold a minimum of the BCU 1 Star or Paddle UK Discover Award are welcome to join at any time. Those with equivalent skills or experience can come for an informal paddle out with one of our coaches to assess their level. Those new to paddling or not familiar with closed cockpit kayaks and how to self-rescue must complete one of our Discover Award courses before attending club sessions.

If you’re thinking of joining, please contact us first so we know to expect you and can arrange an induction.

Beginners Course – The Discover Award

Our beginners course combines the Discover Award and PaddleSafer training and is delivered over two consecutive Saturdays (both sessions must be attended to complete the course). We typically run 3 or 4 courses between May and August – please check out the Events page for exact dates and to sign up.

Once booked, beginners must arrange club membership, as our course is solely for beginners joining the club. Those who have not arranged club membership prior to the course will not be eligible to attend.

Membership

Annual membership is a rolling membership which entitles you to use club equipment and facilities. We do not charge additional fee for using equipment at the club.

Fees

• Adult membership is £60 per year
• Junior membership is £35 per year
• Family membership is £160 per year and covers up to 4 family members from the same household.

Juniors

Junior members must be supervised at all times by parents/guardians who are members of the club. The exception to this rule is where juniors have been handed to the charge of a club coach for a prearranged coaching session. Although juniors are to be supervised by a parent or guardian, the minimum age for junior members is 12 years old or in Year 7 at school. The exception to this is where juniors are sponsored by a club coach who will act in loco parentis for the duration of a club session.

Club Policies

The club has several policies that members are required to follow. Prospective members should at least familiarise themselves with the code of conduct and standard operating procedures as a minimum before joining.

Joining the club

Use contact us to get in touch with our Membership Secretary and request to join, outlining any previous paddling experience and qualifications you may have. They will provide you with clear instructions and a link where you can register your details with Paddle UK and buy Canoe Avon membership. They will also arrange an induction to the club where necessary.

Boat Storage

We may be able to offer personal boat storage for members depending on the size and type of boat. Boat storage is subject to availability at site and committee members must be contacted before purchase is made to confirm space is available for your boat.

Please note that while the site is fairly well secured, we cannot accept any liability for loss or damage to personal equipment stored. Members are strongly advised to arrange their own insurance when storing equipment.

Boat storage fees are £60 per boat per year and can be paid through BACS transfer. Please contact our Treasurer for details.