SAILING clubs in Otley and Yeadon will be inviting people to give the sport a try next month.

The town’s clubs are joining others across Yorkshire to take part in Push the Boat Out during May.

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) scheme aims to encourage more people out on the water by offering free or discounted taster sessions for sailing and windsurfing.

The initiative is aimed at all ages and the RYA is hopeful that participants will come away with a new-found appreciation of the benefits sailing can bring, including:

*The challenge and achievement of learning a new skill

*The sense of freedom while afloat on the water

*A chance to make new friends and build confidence, independence and the ability to work as part of a team.

RYA North East Regional Development Officer, Sam Usher, said: “There has never been a better time to get active afloat.

“With so much focus on physical and mental wellbeing, being on the water gives all ages a chance to get away from screen time and the stresses of modern life to have fun with friends or family and enjoy being out in the fresh air.”

The Push the Boat Out session at Yeadon Sailing Club takes place at Yeadon Tarn on Saturday, May 11.

The Otley club’s event, meanwhile, will be held during Otley Show on Saturday, May 18.

All kit and safety equipment will be provided and last year more than 39,000 people across the UK attended one of the open days, inspiring thousands of new sailors to join clubs. For more details about local events visit www.rya.org.uk/ptbo.