WINDSURFERS will rule the waves in Dovercourt next weekend when competitors from across the world take part in a national championship.

After a successful event last year, organisers have decided to make it bigger and better with a series of races set to be hosted as part of the Slalom Windsurfing Championships.

Quiver Windsurfing, based at Dovercourt boating lake, will host the event, and have ensured a variety of entertainment will be on offer for spectators.

Live music can be enjoyed courtesy of world-renowned blues group The Hokum Boys, while a collection of classic Volkswagen cars will be on display.

A smaller version of the event was held last year just after the windsurfing school opened.

Organiser Darren Herbert will make sure the event raises funds for a good cause, and will offer free windsurfing lessons to the siblings of extremely ill children through East Anglian Children’s Hospice.

The charity supports families, children and young people living with life-threatening conditions.

“Often you find with these children who are not very well – their siblings take a back seat in all of it and it can be very difficult,” said Darren.

“With this they can come to some windsurfing lessons and enjoy some fun activities.”

The event will take place next Saturday, June 4, and Sunday, June 5, in partnership with the British Slalom Association.

There will be competitors of differing abilities taking part in various events, from amateurs to professionals.

Mr Herbert said windsurfing brand Goya will be making specialised racing equipment for the first time following the success of last year’s event.

“Because the race got such good TV coverage, they’ve started making racing equipment,” he said.

“They’ve coloured their racing boards black and sails green in tribute to our centre’s colours.”

He added: “I think it should be a really good day.

“For Dovercourt to host this sort of event is excellent as it draws coverage and large crowds.

“Last year we had coverage from the national media, including the BBC, so it’s really good for the town and good for the sport.

“The entertainment will be more staggered over the Saturday so the competitors can enjoy themselves once out of the water.

“Dovercourt, with its easterly-facing beaches is a good place for it too.”

The event starts at 10am.