Four teenagers who learned to surf with The Wave Project have now enrolled as volunteers to help other children in need.

Ben Woodland and Daniel Hobbs, both 14 and from Falmouth; Harry Sutton, 14, from Penzance, and Conner Mitchell, 19, from Redruth, were all referred to the West Cornwall branch of the project to help them improve their confidence and self-esteem.

They took part in a six-week surf course, run by local surf schools and supported by local volunteers, and went on to join the Wave Project surf club.

Now all four are competent surfers and are keen to volunteer with the charity to help other local youngsters improve their own confidence through surfing. They said the Wave Project has given them the confidence to help others.

Dan said: “When I’m in the water I can literally feel my anger going away. It’s really rewarding being able to help other people, just like others helped me. When I’m volunteering it’s such good vibes in the water.”

Conner, 19, added: “My confidence has massively improved and I’m feeling so much happier about myself. I didn’t have a great time when I was younger, so I’m pleased to be able to give others the chances I never had.”

Harry started volunteering with the Wave Project after participating in an exchange surf trip to Ireland organised by the charity. His mum Trish Sutton said: “Harry came back from Ireland a different person. Since he’s been volunteering it’s like he’s reached a new stage in his life. He has been faced with new challenges but has overcome them with ongoing support from the Wave Project surf club. It’s not just about being in the water – being a volunteer has helped him with every aspect of life.”

Tim Hunt, West Cornwall project coordinator for The Wave Project, said: “I’m so proud of these four young lads. They have done so well to overcome their own challenges and learn to surf – and now they are helping others do the same.”