Frustrated paddle board enthusiasts confused after sport 'banned' at popular locations
manchestereveningnews.co.ukA ban on paddle boarding on many reservoirs across the north west has sparked discontent among enthusiasts who have been told it was never allowed in the first place.
Last week United Utilities (UU) was criticised after it released statements confirming paddle boarding wasn't allowed at 165 of its reservoirs because of safety fears, denying a claim from British Canoeing it was a new 'ban'.
Four paddle boarders died in River Cleddau in Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire south Wales in November. READ MORE:Rape and trafficking arrests as police investigate child sexual exploitation of two teenage girls But the firm's stance means sailing clubs which have allowed paddle boarding for years on reservoirs and lakes across the north west had to inform enthusiasts - for whom the activity has been an important stress reliever during the lockdown - the activity was never permitted by their lease.
But paddle boarders insist the activity is safer than sailing and windsurfing, and have urged to UU to reconsider. Only five stretches of water managed by UU currently allow paddle boarding - among them Hollingworth Lake - as their leases permit it.
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