New surfer creates winter meet-up group

A woman who took up surfing five months ago is now encouraging others to be brave in the colder months after falling in love with the sport just weeks before her 40th birthday.

Victoria Channing-Turner took a single surfing lesson with her sister thinking nothing of it and it quickly became a passion, leading her to create a new social surf group for people who want to stay active and meet new people over winter.

"It just absolutely had me hooked," she said.

She added surfing had become much more than just a new hobby, helping her build friendships and become part of a supportive community.

"We've bonded, we've made friendships. It's been brilliant," Channing-Turner said.

The free group is part of Laneez Surf School and is open to people of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to more experienced surfers who want to build connections in the water.

Channing-Turner said one of the goals is to show surfing is not just a summer hobby.

The group plans to continue meeting throughout winter, adapting sessions to suit the weather and sea conditions.

"If it's a bit rough, we'll just play in the white water," she said.

Alongside the surfing, Channing-Turner said the social side has become a huge part of the group, with members often staying behind for a chat after their sessions.

Even though she only discovered the sport this year, the experience has been unexpectedly life-changing.

"It's become my world," she said.

"I might be slightly addicted."

Follow BBC Jersey on X,Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.