Surfers take part in peaceful protest at Kimmeridge (From Bournemouth Echo)

Surfers take part in peaceful protest at Kimmeridge

1:40pm Saturday 20th June 2009

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A MASS paddle of surfers demonstrated at Kimmeridge in a bid to gain access to a monster wave.

Around 250 surfers, windsurfers and kitesurfers took part in a peaceful protest on International Surfing Day on Saturday (June 20), paddling out to form a circle in the sea with a 60ft banner.

In a battle with the Ministry of Defence, they are calling on the secretary of state to allow access to Broadbench, a special wave found on the outer boundary of the firing range.

The protesters are seeking a compromise to change the direction of the firing, leaving Broadbench – described as one of Britain’s best waves – outside the boundary of the range.

Andy Cummins, campaign manager for Surfers Against Sewage, said they appreciated the range was needed but felt a compromise could allow surfers access 365 days a year.

“We had masses of support to demonstrate that this is a really vital issue for people. And we will be taking this message to the secretary of state,” he said.

Guy Penwarden, a local surfer and campaigner said: “Broadbench is a special wave, a jewel in the British surfing crown and having to watch it going unridden is heartbreaking.

“Surfers and the MoD can use this area without conflict and we hope the Secretary of State for Defence will recognise this.”

However a statement from the MoD said: “The area is a vital training ground for British servicemen and women, allowing them to prepare for live fire situations in Afghanistan.

“A reduction is this training time would ultimately endanger their lives. We have taken steps to make the Broadbench wave available to the public where it is practical and safe to do so.”

Use of the range has increased due to operational commitments, however the MoD points out that land access is available to the public on 137 days a year and to Broadbench daily when firing is completed.

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