A canoe club in Swindon that aims to introduce more youngsters to the sport has been given a £1,000 boost by one of the country’s leading housebuilders.

Swindon and District Canoe Club, based at Coate Water, offers a wide range of paddling activities in kayaks, open canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Coached by expert paddlers, the British Canoeing Affiliated club run weekly sessions from Coate Water Country Park as well as trips further afield.  

The community sport group has been handed the grant from Persimmon Homes Wessex as part of the housebuilder’s re-launched Building Futures campaign, which runs until August. Building Futures will deliver more than £1m to good causes this year.

Julie Lowe, chairperson of Swindon and District Canoe Club, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this backing from Persimmon Homes.

“We want to introduce more youngsters in the local area to the joy of paddle sport and to enhance their physical health and wellbeing.

“Water sports are very challenging, but we believe that in a supportive and motivating environment led by experienced paddlers it can be extremely rewarding.

“This donation will enable us to purchase appropriately sized semi dry and dry cags which will help keep youth paddlers warmer, drier, and happier in colder and wet conditions.

“This kit is essential to ensure the enjoyment and ongoing success of our club.”