A west Dorset club has received a major boost by welcoming a 'kayaking legend' as a patron.

The Heritage Coast Canoe Club (HCCC) has joined forces with Darren ‘Daz’ Clarkson-King, a kayaker, writer, outdoor adventurer and motivational speaker.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “Darren’s pedigree in kayaking is second to none.

“Specialising in guided kayaking trips to the Himalayas, Daz is a triple crown paddler and the only paddler ever to solo all the rivers from Everest, and to have paddled all the rivers from Everest and K2 [Mount Godwin-Austen].”

Several HCCC members, past and present, have paddle with him in the Himalayas and, following an inspirational talk given to the club back in February, a plan was hatched to recruit Mr Clarkson-King.

He said: “Local clubs like Heritage Coast Canoe Club are the lifeblood of Kayaking. They provide opportunity for people of all ages and from all walks of life to try out kayaking. For many, it can be a life changing experience.

“I am delighted to support the club as their patron and help promote this great group and wonderful outdoor activity.”

Mr Clarkson-King is passionate about kayaking and actively involved in charitable activities in Nepal, also acting as an ambassador nationally for The Scout Association.

Siobhan Baxter, secretary of HCCC, said: “We are excited to welcome Daz to the club.

“We hope having such a well-known and dynamic paddler will raise the profile of the club and encourage others to take to the water and experience the unrivalled thrill of kayaking.”

HCCC was founded in 2004 and meets every Tuesday at the West Bay Watersports Centre on Fisherman’s Green from 6pm from a two-hour paddle on the river or sea.

No experience is needed, and all ages are welcome.

All kit is provided, and the sessions are overseen by qualified and experienced coaches.

For more information, visit westbaykayak.co.uk