West Reservoir welcomes local residents with free watersports

Over 200 local people enjoyed free sailing and kayaking sessions at West Reservoir’s open day on Saturday 22 August, thanks to sponsorship from Blakedown Landscapes.

The Water Sports Open Day welcomed 213 participants, with 170 advance bookings and a further 43 walk-ins attending on the day. The event gave local residents of all ages the opportunity to experience watersports free of charge in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Participants were able to choose from a range of activities, with many taking to the water for the first time. The programme included one-hour group kayaking sessions, where attendees learned the basics of paddling under the guidance of qualified instructors. Visitors could also enjoy 30-minute sailing "joyrides", taking a scenic trip around the reservoir aboard one of the centre's larger sailing boats with an instructor. Additionally, visitors who had never swum at the centre before were able to take part in a free Introduction to Open Water Swimming session, which aims to equip people to swim outdoors and remove any potential anxiety for first time attendees.

The open day was sponsored by Blakedown as part of the company's role in the refurbishment works at West Reservoir Centre in 2026. Their sponsorship enabled the centre to offer the sessions free of charge, helping to remove barriers to participation and encourage more local people to experience the unique facilities available on their doorstep.

Chris Wellbelove, Managing Director of Blakedown Landscapes, said: "West Reservoir has been a significant multi-disciplinary project for Blakedown, encompassing new infrastructure and buildings, improved access, landscaping and biodiversity enhancements across the site."

"Supporting the Open Day was a natural extension of our commitment to the project, helping more local people experience and enjoy West Reservoir and the improved facilities available to them. It was fantastic to see more than 200 people take part, particularly those experiencing sailing, kayaking or open water swimming for the first time."

The event attracted a diverse range of participants, including families, young people and residents who had never previously tried watersports.

The success of the open day highlights the growing demand for accessible outdoor recreation opportunities within the borough and forms part of West Reservoir Centre's ongoing commitment to increasing participation in sport and physical activity among local communities.