A popular water-based activity club has been presented with a prestigious award.

Tyne Valley Canoe Club was presented with the Quality Club Award at their Friday evening pool session on March 8 by British canoeing development officer Phil Scowcroft and Northumberland councillor Gordon Stewart.

The award highlights that the club meets the high standards set by British Canoeing, which is the governing body of Paddlesport within the UK.

It praised the group for its governance, care for their members, local community, and environment as well as the promotion of the safe enjoyment of the sport. 

The club then followed the presentation with their weekly pool coach session. 

TVCC secretary Stephen Eglon said: "By achieving Quality Club status it demonstrates to our members and the wider community our commitment to upholding the standards TVCC set ourselves as a club.

"To behave in a manner that encourages the safe enjoyment of Paddlesports by all and ensure our members are offered pathways to develop within the sport as they wish.

"As a club, we care for our local environment and champion the responsible enjoyment of our local waterways.

"British Canoeing Quality Club status is a signpost to the sense of belonging that we have built since our foundation in 1986 and our integration into the local community.

"We as a club look forward to using this status to help us further develop our place within the community."

Cllr Gordon Stewart adds: "The Club is well respected and has been operating from the Tyne Riverside park since 1986.

"I was delighted to attend this special evening to celebrate the award being presented, my thanks go to the team of volunteers who gave up their time to run the club so well."

The club will soon be beginning its summer schedule following Easter where they will meet at Tyne Riverside Park, Low Prudhoe from 6pm on a Friday night.

Full details of how to join the club can be found via this website www.tynevalleycc.co.uk or email admin@tynevalleycc.co.uk