WATERSPORTS in West Sussex are to receive a £170,000 boost in funding thanks to a special grant.

The Coastal West Sussex Partnership has received the money as part of the Government’s Coastal Communities Fund.

The money will be spent on sailing, kayaking and kitesurfing facilities across the county in an attempt to create a hub for water-based sports in the region.

Caroline Wood, director of the Coastal West Sussex Partnership, said: “We’re over the moon to have been awarded this grant.

“We want to work with all relevant businesses to help put the West Sussex coast on the water sports map.

“We have an incredible variety of water sports available locally, from diving in Littlehampton, to kayaking in Pagham, to kitesurfing in the Goring Gap.

“Our stunning coastline has plenty to offer both seasoned athletes and total beginners alike and many of the businesses also cater to families.”

All water sports businesses along the coast in West Sussex have the chance to be involved in the campaign and are being asked to contact the Coastal West Sussex Partnership to express interest.

Lewis Crathern, four times British champion kite surfer and Worthing local, said: “I’m extremely happy that the West Sussex area has received this grant.

“Having grown up here by the coast I have seen water sports develop at a rapid pace and I am proud to call it my base for my profession of kitesurfing.

“I look forward to this collaboration and to further spreading the message that our area is a world class location for water sports.”