In the final Paddler Spotlight of 2024, we’re celebrating an inspiring initiative that is making waves in Birmingham. The Birmingham Community Paddle Sports Project is transforming the city’s waterways into hubs of activity, offering young people the chance to try canoeing and bellboating.
Spearheaded by Olympic canoeist Andy Train and supported by Paddle UK, StreetGames, and the Canal & River Trust, the project has supported more than 1,400 young people to get on the water through paddlesport sessions across the city’s extensive canal network.
Since 2022, it has opened up paddlesports to a diverse group of participants, many from underserved communities who had never previously considered activities like bell boating or canoeing. Over the years, it has become a platform for building confidence, encouraging teamwork and forging new friendships for young people.
By empowering local leadership and trusted local organisations, the system change approach has fostered the creation of eight community paddling hubs. These hubs aim to build capacity and incorporate paddlesport into local youth, community, and family activities.
The eight community paddling hubs include:
- Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre
- Aspire & Succeed
- Nowka Bais
- Saheli Hub
- Newbigin Community Trust
- South Birmingham Paddle Club
- Community Environment Trust
- Womens Wellbeing Ltd
A highlight of the event was the bell boat competition, which saw 60 teams compete over the weekend. The format supported families with children who have learning difficulties and individuals from different economic and ethnic backgrounds to join in.
At the Andrew Simpson Centre in Bartley Green Reservoir, over 150 participants braved the weather on Sunday to try a variety of activities. These included sit-on-top kayaking, bell boating, sailing, powerboating, and rowing, with ergo challenges.
“It was a new experience and I enjoyed being able to join together alongside my peers to take part in a group activity.” – Participant
Throughout the weekend, participants had the chance to meet and engage with several inspiring athletes, including Paralympians Emma Wiggs and Rob Oliver, Olympic rowing medallist Esme Booth, and former Olympian and World Champion Steve Train. Aspiring Olympians George Bell (canoe sprint) and Alfie Noel (sailing) also joined, offering further inspiration and motivation to attendees.
Looking ahead to 2025, and building on the past two years’ success, the initiative will continue to strengthen its partnerships with local organisations and support the community clubs to enhance their paddlesport offerings. With plans to further increase access and provide even more opportunities for young people to get involved, the project remains dedicated to creating lasting, positive change in Birmingham’s communities through the power of paddlesports.
You can read the full 2024 report here: The-Birmingham-Community-Paddle-Sports-Project-2024
If you are a club, group, or organisation that engages with underserved communities and would like to explore how to add paddlesports to your delivery, reach out to Paddle UK’s Recreational Programmes Lead, Gregory van Heerden, at
Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories with us this year for our Paddler Spotlight. Your inspiring initiatives have highlighted the power of paddlesport to bring people together, promote well-being, and make a positive impact in communities.
As we look ahead to 2025, we’d love to hear your experiences and about the initiatives happening in your community. If you’ve got a story to share, fill out our form here or get in touch with us at