A WATERSPORTS festival wants to hear from more people who want to be at one with the waves.

Paddle Round The Pier has put out the call for those who want to try surfing, kayaking and light sailing at its Access Beach for disabled people this summer.

The beach and surf festival – known as Paddle – returns to Brighton seafront between the Palace Pier and West Pier on July 4 and 5.

It features serious watersports as well as a paddle contest in home-made rafts.

In 2010, Paddle introduced its first Access Beach. One of the beneficiaries was local childrens’ charity Whoopsadaisy, which helps those with chromosome deficiencies and cerebral palsy.

But Paddle did not just want to give the charity a cheque – it wanted to get disabled children more involved and allow them to experience something everyone else takes for granted: access to the beach and sea.

Working in conjunction with members of Surf Lifesaving GB, the event continues to give disabled groups and individuals safe, supported and controlled access to the sea, delivering what Paddle organisers have called “a life-changing experience”.

David Samuel, director of Paddle, said: “Of all the many great things Paddle does for the community and charities, Access Beach is one of the most rewarding.

“To see the beaming smile of any youngster confidently getting into the sea for the first time is a special thing.”

Every year, Paddle buys new wetsuits and lifejackets for the children taking part and uses special wheelchairs designed for the beach.

The Paddle crew build decking on the stone beaches for easy access and provide special toilet and changing facilities.

Mr Samuel added: “It’s no longer just about the disabled, it allows entire families with disabled children to take part as a whole unit.”

Sophie Lynch, of Brighton and Hove City Council’s Children’s Disability Service, said: “The last event was really good and our young people enjoyed it immensely.

“It gave them an opportunity they would otherwise not have had.”

For more details, email access@paddleroundthe pier.com or visit paddleroundthepier.com.