A STOURBRIDGE watersports club is inviting people to make a splash this New Year and learn to kayak.

Stourbridge Arm Canoe Club is offering a ten-week course for beginners starting on February 1 - following the success of its 2013 introductory course.

It will comprise a series of one-hour training sessions, taking place on Saturday evenings at Haden Hill Leisure Centre, and will conclude in April with a scenic trip along the Stourbridge canal and a paddle on the River Severn.

Suitable for adults and juniors, the course costs £120 and includes skilled instruction, the use of kayaks and all equipment.

The fee also includes 13 months worth of club membership which offers access to club kit after the course for a small fee until new members decide whether the sport is for them.

Club secretary Stephen Masters said: “We are a friendly club and think this course will be a great way of opening our doors to new members who might be resolving to do something different in the New Year.

"Kayaking and canoeing doesn’t have to be an expensive sport and we hope by giving people this introduction and use of our facilities we can get even more people involved.

"Last year 16 people signed up for the course - ranging from a lad of eight with his father to an elderly gent of 74 and all through the range of ages in between, girls and boys, men and women."

The club meets weekly from April to September at its canal basin clubhouse on the corner of Ashwood Park, Kinver Street, Wordsley, and at Haden Hill Leisure Centre in the winter months.

Volunteers also organise regular trips and outings during the year.

Members are currently waiting to hear whether they have been successful in their bid for £52,000 from Sport England to rebuild and improve their clubhouse.

To find out more about the course call Stephen Masters on 01384 293122, check out the club's Facebook page or email stourbridgearmcanoeclub@gmail.com