Months of hard works has paid off as students were able to show off and try out the fruits of their labour.

Students at the Lyme Regis Boat Building Academy put their creations to water for the first time earlier this month after completing the 40-week course.

Will Reid, principal at the academy, said: “It was a perfect launch day. The weather couldn’t have been better with gentle waves and blue skies and just the right amount of wind for the sea trials.

“The students worked incredibly hard leading up to the big day, with many of them being complete beginners 40 weeks earlier. The group gelled really well and there was a real sense of comradery in the workshop, with everyone pulling together for late nights of joinery, sanding and painting.

“The teamwork paid off and six outstanding boats and two beautiful paddle boards were wheeled and carried down the slipway, escorted by a large crowd of friends and family.

“All the hard work was worth it as they paddled, rowed and sailed into the bay.

“Of course, this is just the beginning with lots of the students going straight into boat building jobs with prestigious companies, such as Tommy Nielsen’s in Gloucester and David Cockwell’s in Falmouth.

“Please join us for our next launch on June 10.”

For more information and photos, visit boatbuildingacademy.com or search for Lyme Regis Boat Building Academy on Facebook.