A NEW facility for water sports and outdoor activities on the southern shores of Windermere has been officially opened.

The ribbon on the Fell Foot Active Base was cut by world sailing champion Steve Goacher on Thursday evening.

The local community, volunteers, members of sports clubs at Fell Foot and others who have been involved in creating the new base also attended the opening event.

The base will make it possible for residents and visitors to participate in water-based activities and outdoor pursuits whilst enjoying comfortable, accessible facilities.

Walney-born Goacher learned to sail at Fell Foot as a child and went on to become a four-time world sailing champion.

Speaking at the launch event, he said: "Fell Foot is home to many special childhood memories for me and it set me off on my sailing career – although I initially spent more time in the water than in the boat.

"It’s a fantastic place for new people to come along and give water sports a go."

The opening of the base has been eagerly anticipated since funding of £500,000 from Sport England was agreed in summer last year.

Emily Taylor, senior visitor experience officer at Fell Foot, said: "Fell Foot Active Base is for everyone.

"You can row on the lake, go for a swim, or run along lakeshore paths, safe in the knowledge there’s a hot shower and a brew waiting for you."

The new facilities will continue to provide a home for South Windermere Sailing Club, which has been based at Fell Foot since 1961, and Windermere Rowing Club, which joined the site in 2014.