A NORTH EAST SCOTLAND fishing community was today lifted with the news that one of the UK's premier water sports competitions will be coming north of the border for the first time.

Fraserburgh, known locally as The Broch, has been chosen by the British Kite Surfing Association (BKSA) to host the new Scottish leg of its annual British championships.

Scores of water sports enthusiasts from throughout the UK are expected to arrive in the area from August 26 until August 28, 2005.

Mark Ward, owner of Aberdeen-based kitesurfing school Extremexposure, was instrumental in luring the organisers to Fraserburgh.

He said: "We are all very excited to be hosting the first Scottish leg of the BKSA championships. The sport has grown massively up here over the past few years and it's largely due to the fantastic large beaches and excellent surf conditions.

"Compared to much of the UK, especially the south coast, Scotland has plenty of unrestricted space where we can practice our sport without having to compete for beach space with sunbathers and other recreational water users. That's not to say we don't get all of these as well, but with massive beaches and low populations, we don't have the overcrowding and subsequent beach restrictions experienced by many southern prime kitesurfing venues.

"The North-east corner also has surprisingly good weather conditions during the summer months with water temperatures not far different from the south."

Aberdeen and Grampian Tourist Board's spokesperson, Ian Hainey, said: "There was a small test competition held in Fraserburgh last August, which attracted some kitesurfers from different parts of Scotland who raved about the area. We also received visits from some well-known south coast riders who enjoyed the surf conditions and were very well looked after by the locals. The word has spread and, thanks largely to the hard work of Mark Ward and other local riders who have promoted the destination when travelling south, the dramatic coast around Fraserburgh has secured the first ever leg of the British Championships.

"Hopefully we can make this one a success and ensure it's held in Scotland on a yearly basis, as it's sure to attract droves of spectators to the spectacular event and also to the social scene which will be going on in the evenings."

James Adams owns the Tufted Duck hotel in St Combs, yards from the competition venues, and is already gearing up to help accommodate, refresh and entertain those attending the event.

He said: "This is absolutely tremendous for the area and I've always said the fantastic amenities like in this area, such as the beach, are often underused.

"We have water sports enthusiasts out in the bay all year round enjoying the waves and the wind sport guys are always raving about how our beaches can cater for almost any wind direction.

"It's no coincidence Fraserburgh has its own claim to fame in the water sports world, as the former Scottish surfing champion has a surf shop in the town.

"We haven't had enough large events held up in this area, so it will be great for local businesses who are able to get involved. Visitors are always commenting on the quality of the beaches and how there are never many people using them. Maybe a regular event like this would help encourage more to the area in the future.

"No plans are finalised at this stage, but I've agreed on principle to help facilitate some of the competitors and spectators at my hotel, and I also have nine acres of land, which has the potential for camping.

"We will also be looking to take advantage of the event to help promote the wealth of local musicians we have in this area. Hopefully plenty bands will come forward looking to perform in front of people from all around the country and take advantage of the publicity."

Anyone needing more information on the event can contact Mark Ward on extremexposure@aol.com or call 07710 639796. (Ends. 16/03/05)