FIVE sailing clubs and water sports centres in and around Worcestershire will be offering free and low-cost opportunities to get out on the water this May.

Special events will be held across the county from Saturday, May 9, to Sunday, May 17, as part of the national The Royal Yachting Association’s ‘Push The Boat Out’ initiative.

Push the Boat Out is a nationwide festival of sailing and windsurfing introducing newcomers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to the water.

Last year 260 clubs and centres in Britain hosted events with 17,000 people trying sailing or windsurfing for the first time over one weekend, including 80 people at Trimpley Sailing Club near Bewdley.

Gareth Brookes, The Royal Yachting Association regional development officer for the Midlands, said: "Push The Boat Out 2014 was a huge success, probably our biggest and best yet and it was fantastic to see so many clubs and centres taking part across the region with record-breaking numbers out on the water.

"But we’re already looking forward to seeing the different options and opportunities that will be on offer for all ages and abilities this year simply by extending the event.

“We already have more clubs and centres signed up to run events than last year so Push the Boat Out 2015 promises to be even better.”

Each event has been designed to “showcase what the sports are really all about from the freedom of being on the water to the social buzz of club life”, according to The Royal Yachting Association.

Clubs in and around Worcestershire that have already signed up to Push The Boat Out include Top Barn Activity Centre, Trimpley Sailing Cub, Aztec Adventure, Aztec Watersports Limited and Sail and Paddle.

Meanwhile Arden Sailing Club at Defford, near Pershore, will be holding its annual open day on bank holiday Monday, May 4.

For more details on events in the county visit rya.org.uk/go/ptbo