Surge in Nippers Clubs in Devon and Cornwall Post-Pandemic Highlights Demand for Surf Sports

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, nippers clubs in Devon and Cornwall have experienced a remarkable surge in membership, reflecting a significant shift in public interest towards surf sports and water safety. This trend is exemplified by the Carlyon Bay Surf Life Saving Club, which has seen its membership grow dramatically since its establishment just two years ago. The club, operating out of a shipping container, is expected to host thousands at the upcoming Cornish Nipper Championships this weekend, further illustrating the rising popularity of such initiatives.

The nippers program, which caters to children aged five to 13, aims to teach essential water safety skills while promoting physical fitness through various activities such as beach flags, sprints, surf swims, and board events. According to Harry Edwards, captain of the Carlyon Bay Surf Life Saving Club, interest in joining the club has "really exploded," with nearly 100 members and a constant waiting list, indicating a strong community response to the need for surf lifesaving education along the coast.

Surf Life Saving GB reported a national membership increase from 8,820 to 10,389 between 2022 and 2023, marking an 18% rise. Anna Smee, chief executive of Surf Life Saving GB, noted that this growth is primarily driven by the nippers program, particularly in regions like Devon and Cornwall. "After COVID, people became more interested in spending time on the beach and in nature, recognizing the positive physical and mental health benefits of outdoor activities," Smee explained. This newfound enthusiasm has not only encouraged families to engage in surf sports but has also led to a greater awareness of water safety among children.

The growing interest in nippers clubs has also prompted calls for additional volunteer support. Smee emphasized that the waiting lists for clubs stem from a shortage of adult volunteers willing to assist. "We would love to welcome all children and young people into our clubs, but we need more adults prepared to be on the beaches with them," she stated, highlighting the need for expanded training to ensure safety in aquatic environments.

The increase in membership and interest in surf sports is not just a local phenomenon. Edwards pointed out that the trend mirrors surf lifesaving culture in Australia, where such activities are deeply ingrained in the community. "Surf lifesaving is massive in Australia, and we are following that closely," he remarked, alluding to the necessity of water awareness skills in light of increasing public engagement with oceanic activities.

As more families seek outdoor experiences, the importance of surf lifesaving education becomes increasingly apparent. The Carlyon Bay Surf Life Saving Club and similar organizations are at the forefront of this movement, working to equip the next generation with critical skills for enjoying the coast safely. Looking ahead, the continued expansion of these clubs will likely depend on the availability of trained volunteers and the sustained interest of families in surf sports and water safety activities.

This growing trend presents an opportunity not only for physical fitness and community engagement but also for fostering a culture of safety and respect for the ocean among young people in Devon and Cornwall.