FAQ
Why form a kitesurfing club?
In the north east we are fortunate not to have many restrictions on when and where we can kitesurf. However with increasing numbers of people kitesurfing in the area it is possible that more restrictions may come in to force and an organised club is much better placed to respond to and liase with landowners and local authorities than individuals. It's all about representing ourselves well and forming a good relationship with those who manage the beaches so we can continue to enjoy them.
We're also fortunate in that Northumberland County Council, who manage beaches from Blyth to Amble, have been very supportive of the club and want to encourage kitesurfing in the area. We have already had meetings with the council's beach wardens and will be fully involved in any consultations that affect our sport in the area
That's the serious bit, the other benefit is to help bring kiters together, organise events, trips & socials and to give people new to the area or the sport a point of contact for meeting others.
Will beaches become "members only"?
No - absolutely not. This is not about closing access to the beaches, it's about keeping them open for everyone; locals and visitors, members and non-members alike.
Why affiliate to the BKSA?
Affiliation gives extra security to the club and its members ensuring that club members are not liable for any incident that might involve another club member and insuring the club as a whole.
The BKSA is also able to help in organising events and provide assistance in the event that a dispute occurs over access, for example. It does require that members are also members of the BKSA, which in turn means they are covered by third party liability insurance for all kite powered activities.
But I'm a landboarder / buggier...
The club is also open to landkiters and offers the same benefits and support whether you ride on wheels or fins.
What region does the club represent?
This has been one of the most debated issues since many kiters in the North East will travel along the coast from Budle to Redcar in search of the best conditions. A stretch of about 100 miles of coastline governed by several county councils and many other landowners.
It has been proposed however, that initially the club focuses on building a good relationship with the people who manage the beaches in Northumberland and then review this at an Annual General Meeting in 12 months. This area has 2 beaches with existing or planned zones for kite sports - Druridge Bay and Blyth - and one location with an seasonal ban on watersports for 5 months of the year - Budle. Focussing just on this area in the first year will help ensure the club does not spread itself too thin while it is just starting up.
Do you have to attend meetings etc.?
No, there's no pressure to get involved in anything you don't want to. Just lending your support to the club as a member will strengthen its ability to represent kitesurfers in the area.
However if you are interested in influencing how the club is run or you want to get involved then please step forward, the club will rely on the goodwill, skills and effort of its members and committee to make it work.
What do you have to do to join?
The main requirements of membership are that you hold valid BKSA membership and therefore 3rd party liability insurance - currently £38 a year. There will be a £5 yearly subscription to the club on top of that and finally you'll be asked to follow the guidelines in the club's constitution and code of conduct. These are basically about observing any restrictions in place, kitesurfing safely and taking responsibility for yourself and your actions. All common sense stuff.
Where will the money go?
As a member, that will be up to you to propose and decide. It could be on events, a BBQ or equipment like a weather station for example. The club has a bank acount which is managed by the treasurer and accounts will be available to all.
For more information on the structure and organisation of the NEKC, please click on 'Club Documents'.
Will the club offer training or any equipment to use?
Unfortunately not. While club members are happy to to offer help and advice, it's up to you to supply your own kit and arrange for professional instruction.
We may however offer group training at our events for the benefit of members, and arrange demo days to try out the latest kit.
In the north east we are fortunate not to have many restrictions on when and where we can kitesurf. However with increasing numbers of people kitesurfing in the area it is possible that more restrictions may come in to force and an organised club is much better placed to respond to and liase with landowners and local authorities than individuals. It's all about representing ourselves well and forming a good relationship with those who manage the beaches so we can continue to enjoy them.
We're also fortunate in that Northumberland County Council, who manage beaches from Blyth to Amble, have been very supportive of the club and want to encourage kitesurfing in the area. We have already had meetings with the council's beach wardens and will be fully involved in any consultations that affect our sport in the area
That's the serious bit, the other benefit is to help bring kiters together, organise events, trips & socials and to give people new to the area or the sport a point of contact for meeting others.
Will beaches become "members only"?
No - absolutely not. This is not about closing access to the beaches, it's about keeping them open for everyone; locals and visitors, members and non-members alike.
Why affiliate to the BKSA?
Affiliation gives extra security to the club and its members ensuring that club members are not liable for any incident that might involve another club member and insuring the club as a whole.
The BKSA is also able to help in organising events and provide assistance in the event that a dispute occurs over access, for example. It does require that members are also members of the BKSA, which in turn means they are covered by third party liability insurance for all kite powered activities.
But I'm a landboarder / buggier...
The club is also open to landkiters and offers the same benefits and support whether you ride on wheels or fins.
What region does the club represent?
This has been one of the most debated issues since many kiters in the North East will travel along the coast from Budle to Redcar in search of the best conditions. A stretch of about 100 miles of coastline governed by several county councils and many other landowners.
It has been proposed however, that initially the club focuses on building a good relationship with the people who manage the beaches in Northumberland and then review this at an Annual General Meeting in 12 months. This area has 2 beaches with existing or planned zones for kite sports - Druridge Bay and Blyth - and one location with an seasonal ban on watersports for 5 months of the year - Budle. Focussing just on this area in the first year will help ensure the club does not spread itself too thin while it is just starting up.
Do you have to attend meetings etc.?
No, there's no pressure to get involved in anything you don't want to. Just lending your support to the club as a member will strengthen its ability to represent kitesurfers in the area.
However if you are interested in influencing how the club is run or you want to get involved then please step forward, the club will rely on the goodwill, skills and effort of its members and committee to make it work.
What do you have to do to join?
The main requirements of membership are that you hold valid BKSA membership and therefore 3rd party liability insurance - currently £38 a year. There will be a £5 yearly subscription to the club on top of that and finally you'll be asked to follow the guidelines in the club's constitution and code of conduct. These are basically about observing any restrictions in place, kitesurfing safely and taking responsibility for yourself and your actions. All common sense stuff.
Where will the money go?
As a member, that will be up to you to propose and decide. It could be on events, a BBQ or equipment like a weather station for example. The club has a bank acount which is managed by the treasurer and accounts will be available to all.
For more information on the structure and organisation of the NEKC, please click on 'Club Documents'.
Will the club offer training or any equipment to use?
Unfortunately not. While club members are happy to to offer help and advice, it's up to you to supply your own kit and arrange for professional instruction.
We may however offer group training at our events for the benefit of members, and arrange demo days to try out the latest kit.
