A NEW sailing school designed to bring the sport to people of all ages and abilities has opened in Llyn. The Abersoch Sailing School promises to teach complete beginners to sail off the beach within 30 minutes. Instructor Peter Coop says it is all down to the boats on offer. He said: "We have six craft here called funboats which are the safest I've ever handled. They're also the simplest to control and manoeuvre so anybody can do it. I think these boats are the key to opening up the world of sailing to all kinds of people." The school can provide tuition for all abilities from beginner to advanced, and offers the peace of mind of two safety powerboats which are always on patrol. Peter has 35 years sailing experience and is a fully qualified Royal Yachting Association instructor. He has sailed at the highest level having recently competed in the British Steel Round the World Challenge. Although a family concern at the moment, Peter hopes to be able to employ two or three part-time staff in the summer. The school has the support of Councillor Wyn Williams who was pleased at its universal appeal. "I think this can offer a long-term pastime to local people and serve as a day attraction to visitors at the same time. I'm also glad that it can be done in all but the worst of weather because that means it will be open for more months of the year and the benefits to the local economy will be greater," he said. Peter also hopes that local schools can become involved at a later date. "We are very keen to develop the educational side of things because there are such fantastic coastal waters here that it is a great shame that local kids aren't able to take advantage of a great natural resource much more. "We can also cater for the disabled sailor because the boats we use are so versatile that physical ability really is not a problem." Contact Abersoch Sailing School on 01758 712290 or log on to www.abersochsailingschool.com. | 
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