Tempted

Tempted, very tempted, but holding back. That's our position. The national press want a slice of this... they would. Polzeath holiday destination of the PM and Harry and William, you bet they want the story...we're just not quite ready yet. We're a big surf school, but a small business. And that's the way we like it. We have no illusion of grandeur, not looking for an opportunity to get beyond our station. All we actually want is to be able to continue to run our surf school as we have done for the last 18 years, on a safe beach.

Of the 500 + emails sent to the council that I've seen.... one came through yesterday that was short, but to the point. It reads as follows...

Thank you for your generic response.

Perhaps you could answer a straightforward question. Has the control of the number of surfing students on the beach at any one time been addressed in the tender documentation?

If it has, then tenderers will be able to take a view on the prescribed number of clients it may be able to attract and therefore price its bid accordingly. If it has not, then, without doubt, the safety of the surfers and thereby the public is being compromised as you are giving the green light for each of the surfing schools to maximise the number of students in the water at any one time.

Do not be fooled that 'Establishing the new licensed framework for surf tuition from the Council’s land will enable the authority to set minimum standards to ensure a quality experience for the user in line with the historic standards within the former WAVES scheme.'... because that simply is not true. What the council have chosen to omit in this statement is that there will now no longer be any restriction on other surf schools using Polzeath as a teaching venue and there will no longer be any restriction on the number of surfers any surf school can teach at one time. High tide on a hot summer's day? Oh my God! Oh my God. This is absolutely not in line with the former Wave Scheme. It couldn't be further apart.

Anyway, it's business as usual. Van off to get sign written next week - whether we stay where we are or move two yards away... we'll still be here and we're resolved to make it the best year ever! 

We were going to give this the 'One more night' tag line..... but we've been using that one for the past nine years! No one buys it anymore! 

Looking forwards

Firstly let's congratulate two of our former Surf's Up! Boardriders - Liam and Max who both triumphed at the recent Rip Curl Grom Search. A fantastic achievement by both. Trained over a few years intensively by our elite coach and Kiwi, Kelly O'Toole these boys have been going head to head for a while now. It'll be interesting to track their careers as they progress into the older age categories.

Surf today - head high, windy but warm. I much prefer it like this. It's almost balmy! Sunny yesterday. My bonce is browner than on Monday for sure.

Speaking of balmy, went to the solicitors yesterday... that all went well. Few paths to explore for sure. And then if it comes to it we're looking at a bill of £25k -30k to go to Judicial Review. Costly for sure. We'd have to sell one of our kids, but needs must and the cause is a good one! I like to see myself as a visonary :-) and what I see in three years time is sun, surf and three surf schools battling it out to pay for big licence fees in an over crowded black and white surf zone whilst the perpetrators are long gone. It's not about today or tomorrow - it's what happens within that 7 year lease period. The problem only gets worse. And the problem is there to stay. It's irreversible. That's why we have to stand up for what we think is right. 

The council are bending the rules of risk assessments and HSE and it's not right in any shape or form. It sets a precedent. Do you know what I'd really like to know? Where's the expertise coming from to make these decisions. The impact is huge, these are fundamental changes to the way the beaches are managed..... consultation should have been undertaken. If, as I suspect, the council are leaning on someone without the necessary experience, we will get to the bottom of it. Because no-one in their right mind would go forward with this proposal. It's a recipe for disaster. It's a way to raise cash so that someone can stay in employment. But they're not going to get it. If we pull out from the tender process and park 5 yds away, take the view that we'd rather pay £300 for a parking ticket, spend the £19,700 on developing our business in a different way, who's going to pay £20k to sit next to us? You'd think they'd take a view and do the same. What's been proved in this process is that at the end of the lease term, you have a business that you can't sell on and that therefore has no value. I think the council are at risk of making less money than last year, not more. But we'll see. I believe in people, and I  like to see the best in people. I'm also a fatalist ie things happen for a reason. How many of you have said, this could be the best thing that's ever happened to you. 

I should thank you again for the letters of support - we'd like to somehow publish them, it's hard to comprehend the efforts that have been made to write about your connection with Polzeath and real genuine concern that it retains it's appeal. Humbling, make no mistake. Oh and I used to think no-one read my blogs or newsletters - apparently some of you do.

Right, I suppose I'd better do some guitar and singing practice for Saturday. The last time our band played together was September and we won't have time for a rehearsal. We're going to wing it. History tells me that in our case a good rehearsal is no guarantee of a good gig. We've had some shockers! Standing behind the mike can be the loneliest of places when it's all going wrong. I lost my voice once at a private party during the second song. The Amy Whitehouse tribute singer came back on stage to lend a hand. There's a low light right there! But at the same time, I've been past head high amongst the assembled for a bit of crowd surfing - at the Oystercatcher as it goes, which is where we're playing this weekend. I'm hoping that adrenaline, fear and a drunk audience will win the day! Whatever happens, it'll be fun and I feel there'll be a bit more energy and angst to channel into the vocals this time around. Ladies and gentleman, let's get ready to rumble! Oh nearly forget, how rude... of course on Saturday, we'll also be celebrating Plymouth Argyle staying in the football league and the start of their charge towards the Premiership. Get in!

Council Reply

We are truly humbled by the support. I've just seen a response sent out today by Jolyon, Countryside Officer for Cornwall County Council, who I believe lacks the experience to head this up. I've inserted my comments - the lies, inconsistencies and inference that by adding a further surf school represents a step forward re. beach safety is totally incorrect, dangerous and foolish. Letter and reply as follows....  

The licence awarded to the existing provider of surf tuition from the Polzeath Car Park recently expired after a long period of operation (18 years).  The Council has a duty to achieve best value from publicly owned assets, which informed its decision to advertise two opportunities for licences (where and when was the consultation process to turn the car park spaces into a trading pitch - apparently the reason why this isn't being done on any other beach is because the consultation process is lengthy) through a publicly advertised (wrong dates, not on tender website, no reply to questions asked, submission date on bank holiday) competitive process . The existing provider was notified of the Council’s intention to tender (the first we heard about this was through our main competitor the day before it went in the paper - upon which we were given 14 working days. The previous tender was carried out over an 8 week period). 

The Council has now evaluated the tenders received and has offered the opportunity to trade from the car park to two successful businesses catering for surf tuition and hire. The Council’s proposed licence agreements would contain the same standards covered by the former WAVES scheme to ensure the highest operating and health and safety thresholds are met. (except the numero uno condition - they've taken away any restrictions on numbers ie we can take in as many students as we like with no reference to tide or season. Really? Wow! At high tide we used to be restricted to 20 students, we could now take in 100? plus the two other schools, plus any other surf schools operating on the beach as they've taken away that restriction too. Free for all.)

The Council recognises the importance of the beaches to the environment and economy of Cornwall and is committed to ensuring that it works with both local communities and businesses (the council have received over 500 e-mails opposing the introduction of a new surf school - it has not in any way worked with the local community or businesses) to ensure that these are managed in a sensitive way.  Revenue generated from the issuing of licences is used to support the provision of services such as beach cleansing and Lifeguards and the authority is required to ensure that it generates the best possible value for Council Taxpayers’ money. (which brings us back to - the tender sum will be the key criteria and why not roll it out on ever beach).

Local authorities in this area have worked with activity providers on the beach for a number of years to try and improve standards and manage the quality of experience in the surf zone. (so why change it now - why the backward step?) Polzeath has a number of surf hire outlets (including the surf schools) and shops in the village selling surf equipment, many of which operate without the formal structure that relate to Cornwall Council’s procedures. Establishing the new licensed framework for surf tuition from the Council’s land will enable the authority to set minimum standards to ensure a quality experience for the user in line with the historic standards within the former WAVES scheme. (Absolutely total rubbish!!! That is a complete falsehood of the situation and the statement should be retracted. What has actually happened is they've taken away any restrictions - ie we can teach as many people as we like at any state of time, whilst at the same time allowing any surf school to operate on the beach - the situation before was that there were only two surf schools permitted to operate, now any surf school can operate).

So in summary - it's all about the money, end of, cloaked in misleading info about making the beach safer. The statement 'new licensed framework for surf tuition from the Council’s land will enable the authority to set minimum standards to ensure a quality experience for the user in line with the historic standards within the former WAVES scheme.'.... is absolute nonsense. Complete nonsense. No one would agree with this statement. I think the council is assuming that you have no knowledge of how the beach works. With their actions I think you have more. This is a fob off and totally unacceptable. With falsehoods such as this, into misleading the general public that this is going to better.... I truly believe now that enough is enough and the council officers need to stand down or at the very least hold an open meeting so that the points can be discussed in an open and transparent way. 

I believe that there may be a fourth Muskateer who is watching all this from his ivory tower... you might like to make your views known.

Alford Jonny (jalford@cornwall.gov.uk)

Jolyon Sharpe - 01208 262836 / 07974 916505 jolyon.sharpe@cornwall.gov.uk

Off to see the solictors this afternoon - Compliants Procedure in process, Ombudsman informed and watching. Will consider a Judicial Review, may consider setting up a fighting fund in return for lesson vouchers to go down that route as it's costly. But all so unnecessary.

Other news - erm, well obviously this is dominating our every waking hour. Massive thanks to everyone who's shown such amazing support.. it's been quite a journey! We feel we need a knees up, music soothes the savage beast, so the Surf's Up! rock band Mahoustic (Wailo, lead guitarist; me, vocals and weak link; Grattman, bass former instructor; Will, drums and mate) - we're going to play up at the Oystercatcher this Saturday. Might just have a bit of angst to release with our Foo Fighter, Pearl Jam covers. All welcome!! Be great to see you there.

P of the Deep Blue C

Onward

I know of another 200+ letters that were sent via e-mail to the council on Friday and over the weekend opposing the new surf school. So that's over 500 that I know about. Will they read them? Doubt it! So Complaints Procedure in process, Ombudsmen informed and watching with interest, meeting with solicitors tomorrow. Not going to sit back and take it. Press lined up as and when we need them. We've had a deadline moved to Wednesday... think a lot will happen between now and then. Really miffed that the council misled the district councillor by saying they'd had a bid from a business that wasn't surf related - that was to deflect the criticism, it was a lie.

Surf today is massive! A 6.1 m high tide and it swept under our trailer - wow! That's never happened before. I blame the council. I told you they'd lost all control of our beaches!

What are the council thinking!

It's hard to find the words this morning. The council are going ahead with a second surf school in the car park - it's now a fact. The Polzeath that you and I love, won't be the same. The reasoned arguments that you took time to write down and send to the council officers, have fallen on deaf ears. The issues of overcrowding in the surfing area and the extra bodies walking between the cars in the car park have been superceeded by the need to raise money to pay for, and I quote, "Beach services such as beach cleaning." 

 

We went to a meeting on Wednesday at 3pm with the council to dicsuss the tender - we sat opposite the three council muskateers - David Attwell, Joylon Sharpe and Phil Jones (there was a forth person, a lady called Ann taking the minutes, she was lovely. Get out of there Ann before it's too late!)) - and we discussed all the points. What we argued was considered, both sides had their say. After the 90 minutes myself and Janey went to Morrissons for mug of coffee. I can't deny the thought of eighteen years of hard work going down the pan has put a huge strain on our relationship. We have our boys, but the surf school is like another child to us. We married a few weeks before we started Surf's Up! - it's all we know. Surf's Up! is a family business. We worked hard to create something that was different, that gave back. And we're comfortable that we've done that. We summised that the meeting had gone well and we'd said what we wanted to say.

 

And then I received a phone call yesterday to say the following - that we'd been successful in our bid, but that there would be a second surf school located some five yards away. I don't see that as being successful to be honest. That wasn't the end of it though. When we submitted our bid, there were many questions unanswered. Our biggest was that if we decided to put in a tender bid, how could we value the pitch without knowing what the second site would be? On many occassions the council gave the strongest indications, particularly following your considered letters, that it probably wouldn't be a surf school. If it was it would devalue our pitch. If it was a Costa Coffee cabin, then we might take the view that foot fall would be increased. We asked, and we asked, and we stopped short of blowing the house down. But no little piggies came to the door to answer our questions. The difference in the valuation could have been as much as £15k - so as the deadline approached what were we to do? We did the obvious - we submitted a tender with a sum that reflected our position. We offered to continue to pay at the rate we had done over the past 6 years - £20k a year.... but that if the new trading site was to be offered to a new surf school we reserved the right to negotiate the tender sum. With complete silence from the council on the issue, this made complete sense. We know that we couldn't run a sustainable business paying £20k a year with a surf school a few large strides in the sand away. And the reality is also that you wouldn't want us to. Three large surf schools, going as hard as they can, head to head to teach as many people as we can to pay the licence fee. That's not what anyone would want. 

 

Are you with me so far? Good. Now hang in there because this next bit will knock you out. The phone call I received yesterday from Phil Jones also said that they could only accept our £20k bid; that it was not legal to negotiate once the tender sum was submitted. The council put a gun to our head - go with the £20k with the surf school next to us, or withdraw our tender! please just take a few moments to reread that last bit. This is the council who gave us no notice of a retender process until 14 days prior to the tender date submission (when the season had already started and after 18 years good service); got the dates wrong in the adverts in the paper; refused to return my calls and answer questions that were fundamental to our bid (specifically Jolyon Sharpe); failed to place the tender on their own tendering website; and put the closing date of the tender on a bank holiday. Where's this document that says it's okay to do this but suddenly we get all correct and proper when it comes to the actual tender application. It's my conclusion that a deal was struck with the new school a while ago. I believe that now. Why has this been rushed through in 14 days? Why no consultation? Knowing the opposition why not put the process on hold and have a rethink? And if it's about money, why is this the only beach where this happens? Why are there no trading spots in Newquay, in Bude, all around Cornwall. Why just Polzeath? And maybe if they managed the car parks better and lined up the cars like they used to rather than putting fines on them, they'd raise a bit more cash too. There is no support for a third surf school, a second in the car park, none. I don't know a single person in the village who isn't up in arms about it. And your letters, of which there were hundreds have stated very eloquently what you think in your opposition. Your opinion is worthless.

 

So where are we? I don't know to be honest. We feel that things are going on behind closed doors that we have no control over. None of it makes any sense. What we do know, is that we can't afford to pay £20k a year. We know that. It's been hard enough the past couple of years without the impact on our business of another surf school. And I'm not sure that we have any option but to withdraw our tender. Of course, we don't want to. Yes we could park 20 yards away and pay £19,700 less by buying a parking ticket like every other surf school in the country. We could trade from our shop and office, but still operate. That fails to address the safety issues of beach and car park though. Maybe we don't want to operate on a beach so out of control and lacking in management.

 

We actually don't know what to do. I'm a half glass full man, always have been.... but hearts are heavy in the Craskie camp right now. Feels like we've been stitched up by an incompetent council department. If they need to raise money, why not let a few of the officers go - that's my view. The tender process was an absolute shambles that would not have been tolerated in the private sector. But the officers shelter behind each other and take refuge in the fact that if they don't pick up the phone and answer difficult questions, everything will be okay and it'll all go away. We realise now that the meeting was a complete waste of time, the decision had been made before we even entered the room. What a complete waste of time. Shambles, complete shambles.

 

We've been asked by the council to let them know today what our decision is. So I guess if you want to express your views on any of the issues, you have today to do it, and we'd be grateful if you would to be honest. If you've written before, rather than the generic reply, you might like to go back to ask them to respond to your issues, directly. Probably won't do any good, but probably wouldn't do any harm either. Sorry to be a bit down beat... can't see the funny side right now. Can't quite believe any of it.

 

From myself, Janey and the Surf's Up! team - thanks so much for your support.

 

The details of the three muskateers are as follows: 

David Attwell -  01208 262868 / 0778 559 1200 david.attwell@cornwall.gov.uk

Phil Jones - 01579 324106 / 07771 980166 philip.jones@cornwall.gov.uk

Jolyon Sharpe - 01208 262 836 / 07974 916505 jolyon.sharpe@cornwall.gov.uk

Tender - no new, is... no news!

You'd think after the 200 + letters that I've had cc'd to me, copies of the letters e-mailed to the council clearly expressing concerns about the new tender proposal, that we might have heard something? (200+ that I know about, there would be many many more that I don't know about). But, no! It's time for another...hm. Perhaps a longer one this time... hmmmmmm. Disappointing to be honest. I've been looking at the council contract procedure rules and I have to say that my eyebrows are in the fully arched position. See what you think.... let's start from the very beginning, a very good place to start: I was informed of the tender by our competition; the tender allows for 14 working days (that's council working days, 19 if you run your own business - I think it should be 36 days under the procedure rules absolute minimum) to assemble a document for the next 7 years; the dates in the adverts in the paper differ from that on the tender document; I've not received answers to my questions or calls returned which has made it really difficult to make a valuation of the site or complete by tender document; the main man is on holiday: and the document has to be submitted by Friday latest which is a bank holiday - I quote 'the deadline for the receipt of tenders cannot end on a public holiday, Saturday or Sunday.' Are your eyebrows in the full arched position too? Hmmmmmmm.

Your response has been quite phenomenal. It's been a watershed moment. You've made your views known to the council. And here's the thing - the letters are not copied and pasted from mine. They're long, considered and well argued from people who have a long association and love of Polzeath. I think it's been incredibly positive. Without any intention in doing so, what we've created for free for the council is a market research document that gives a clear vision for the future. 

You still have today and tomorrow left to make your views known, please take the time to write to david.attwell@cornwall.gov.uk and jolyon.sharpe@cornwall.gov.uk if you haven't already and please don't forget to copy us in. Don't worry if you get a message saying they're on hols.

As for us, we're burning the midnight oil, eating lots of cadbury mini eggs and drinking lots of mugs (cups aren't big enough) of espresso because even if we believe the actually tender process is flawed, unless we hear otherwise, we have no choice but to press on with the tender application. It's important. It's our life.

In the meantime, it's business as usual. Easter is upon and we can't wait to see you. We just want to get on with doing what we do best - and that's teaching willing students to take to the surf and ride a few waves. Simple really. Give us a call on 07760 126225 to book your lessons.

Thanks once again for your continued support.

Tender Proposal - update

Following my newsletter yesterday, a vein was struck and an outpouring of emotion was heaped upon the council via many emails. And I have to say that some of you are terrifically eloquent. I muddle through with a limited skill set, but you guys?! Passion flowed through your finger tips as you too felt compelled to challenge a council proposal that threatens the place that you so obviously feel ownership of. For sure, what's very clear, is that your vision of Polzeath, is a long way from that of the council. 

Anyway, following your efforts, it seems only appropriate that I give you an update, keep you in the loop as it were. Well I can report that the very latest news is that, erm, there is none! Nope, no word from Council Villas. In fact, returned e-mails even suggest that the decision makers are on holiday until the 2nd April, a date that conveniently falls after the bids are to be submitted! That's a bit disappointing - I had some more questions. I did manage to contact one of main men by phone earlier today, but it was his day off and he wouldn't discuss it. If I had hair, I'd pull it out, so I'm grinding my teeth. Grrrrrrr. 

Alongside the letters cc'd to me were offers of free assistance from procurement experts and lawyers; other councils; and plentiful coverage in national and local media. To all of whom we say thank you very much (I will respond to every e-mail I've received with a personal reply - if you've written but haven't sent me a copy, I'd be grateful if you would). But the thing is this. We don't want a legal battle; nor be on the front page of the papers; nor headline a radio news bulletin. Our business has been built on reputation alone, we like to do things word of mouth. We run a surf school and live a beach lifestyle. And all we want to do is to able to continue our business established 18 years ago, under the guidance of a competent council who's opinion and actions we trust. In a council that embarks in dialogue and consultation with those with experience.

What's absolutely clear from your comments is that what you want is a safe beach to enjoy - and it's up to us as the activity providor to work with the land owners to ensure that happens. Wouldn't it be great if the council put the tender process on hold for a moment and took some time out to consider all the points you've made. If you've written, thank you for taking the time. If you haven't, but you'd still like your view to be considered, please write to david.attwell@cornwall.gov.uk - and copy to jolyon.sharpe@cornwall.gov.uk.

Council policy threatens Polzeath safety

Hm, where do I start? Normally, as you well know, my heart is full to the brim of goodwill and my soul energised by the constant swish swash of a restless ocean in my lug holes and the fragrant waft of a salty sea breeze up me nostrils. Over the past week however, both myself and Janey have been a touch despondent. "Oh why, Petey? Wherefore art thy sadness cometh hence?" (yep still reading those Bronte sisters!). It's good of you to ask. Thanks.

To cut a long story short, an e-mail arrived from the Cornwall County Council, informing us that our spot in the beach car park is to go to tender and that by the 29th March our bid should be in! So that's three short weeks notice - to prepare a business plan for a seven year tenure! Why so last minute? The last time our patch went to tender was six years ago, but that followed lots of consultation and heads up. It grates a little bit that before we arrived in 1995, it was just a patch of sand with zero value. We got our heads down worked hard and made something of that patch of sand and now not only do we have the pleasure of parting with £20,000 each year to park there, but every now and then we have the privilege of bidding for our own business. It is what it is and we get on with it. The timing and timescale is, how shall I put this nicely..... mildly inconsiderate on the basis that this will be our 19th year, our contribution to the local community is legendary and there's much to do at this time, but as I say, hey ho.

But it's not this part of the e-mail that has affected our general joie de vivre (oui je parle francais, et mon petit lapin s'est cache dans le jardin ... repetez. Mum and Dad please note that school wasn't a complete waste of time!). No, there was a little surprise. Actually a big surprise. Not like a jack in the box surprise, more of a fundamental.... oh my god (sorry, omg if you're under 16). The tender isn't for one surf school, but for two. The second to be sited only a few yards from us, slap bang in between the exit and the entrance of the beach car park! I had to read it again. And again. I've read it more agains.... sometimes scratching my forehead, othertimes whilst banging it against hard objects like my man shed, the bedroom wall or fridge door. I say fundamental, because this is completely and utterly butterly in contradiction to what we, the council, and the RNLI have worked towards for the past 10 years.

"So what's the problem big Pete?" Simples. Two main areas. Firstly, for the past six years, because of the over crowding in the surf, we've been restricted by the council. As in, the number of participants that we could teach was restricted at certain times of day and certain tide heights, sometimes up to 75% on previous years. For any business that's a massive hit, but we've always viewed our business as long term, so we worked with it and around it, encouraging our clients to have lessons at alternative times. Times that to be honest suited both parties as it was quieter. Our maximum participant numbers were also restricted to conform with a mathematical formula devised after some considerable head scratching by Prof Green at Edinburgh University and not insignificant handing over of green backs by the council. (Don't ask if he's the same one who was found in the Ballroom with a candlestick, because that would make you look silly,you're thinking of Rev. Green. And in anycase, we all know it was Mrs. Peacock in the kitchen with some lead piping. Someone bit one of her sponge fingers apparently!). Years and years of consultation between us, the council, the RNLI and other surf schools to ensure that there was a happy balance between commercial beach activity and safety took place. It was a huge, massive issue. Ensuring the beach was firstly, safe, and secondly had a reputation of being safe was of paramount importance to all stake holders - beach users, shop owners, local residents, caravan parks owners, cafes etc. And last year, after all those years and years, for the first time I think we can all stand proud and tall and say that it was the best year ever. Peace and harmony abounded. They was joy from all four corners of Polzeath, or Hayle Bay as it's historically known and locals like to refer to it.

So what this new tender for a second surf school (the third at Polzeath) represents... is a complete reversal of policy. A complete disregard of all the really good, conscientious and well meaning work that was done. The tender document is very interesting. Gone is the emphasis on safety. The previous tender document listed two pages of safety criteria that our operation would need to fulfill. It set the tone right from the off. The new one stresses that the height and weight of the new stack of cash will be the main priority. I quote, 'the tender sum will be the key criteria.' Wow, what a statement!! Makes you want to weep. And we surely will, when the reputation of Polzeath as a safe beach will flow away like an ebbing tide. And it's not for a trial period, give it a year and see how it goes. It's for the next seven years.

As for the second area, well I'd question the reason for siting a second operation right slap bang in the middle of the entrance and exit and the chaos and HSE risks that the council are encouraging by doing so. On many occasions we've enjoyed visits from excited councillors on a day out, swarming around our trailer like japanese tourists armed with cameras and clip boards, noting our NOP in helping our clients negotiate the car park exit safely. The proposed new site is on a completely different level. If our location represents a feet first leap off the 1m springy board, the new one represents diving off the 10m fixed board in the handstand position ie. there's a good chance someone's going to get hurt and I wouldn't want to be the first to give it a go. But to be honest, the first problem area I mentioned before, is so much bigger, that I can't really get excited about this second one. It's such a non starter.  But as a bankrupt once told me, "If you're going to go down at all, you might as well go down big!"Seems this path is destined for our beach under the guidance of the current leadership of this council department.

The tender document states that the 'Cornwall Council holds a Duty of Care to those who use the beach that they own / lease.' I understand that the council needs to raise money, I get that. But what we're not talking about here is a burger van. This is something far more sensitive, far more relevant, far more fundamental. It's about you, your children and family members enjoying a safe surfing environment and having confidence that the beach is being managed by a department focused purely on the basis of ensuring best practice regarding beach safety, rather than one of pursuing revenue collection. I've run Surf's Up! for 18 years and have been at the forefront of improving and promoting beach safety throughout this time and it pains me to say that I have no confidence in a council that chooses and is happy to acknowledge putting profit before safety, and neither should you. The new change in council policy scares me. It takes me back to 1995 when we first drove on to the beach car park with our Honda Civic pulling a small trailer. Haven't we learnt anything? Weren't the restrictions put in place for good reason? The 180 degree shift in policy sets a precedent, not just at Polzeath but throughout the county. It's a watershed moment for our beaches. And that should scare you too. For the council to advertise for a new surf school to open and operate on a beach where the current surf schools presently restrict trade is beyond reason and dangerous. 

So what's the reality? Polzeath Beach will go from two restricted surf schools that work together, to three surf schools going head to head without restrictions. And it'll get worse each year for the next seven. With high licence fees, the winning bidders will have to trade at good levels just to keep heads above water (no pun intended!). Expect more flags, more trailers, more congestion, more bodies carrying boards through the car park, and touting of lessons to holiday makers. Surf wars will be inevitable. Polzeath will resemble a permanent competition zone and have the feel of a time share resort. And that's just the top of the beach. At the water's edge and in the surf, a rainbow of 200 - 300 lycra vested eager participants fighting for a wave or a piece of sand to receive instruction. Casual surfers should head elsewhere, I know I would. And I'd take my two boys with me. There's absolutely no way that the RNLI who lifeguard the beach would support this.

Okay deep breath. I know, it's been a while since I've lead the troops into battle. But this cause is a valid one if you love Polzeath beach as we do. We're not bothered about competition. Competition was the best thing that happened to us, we were forced to raise our game a few years ago and off the back of it, good things happened. Competition gets you up in the morning, helps the focus. No, this is about safeguarding the beach and establishing a fundamental understanding between you, the tax payer and those who are employed on your behalf, the decision makers at the council, that financial gain should never be put above safety.

So what can you do? Write today to david.attwell@cornwall.gov.uk - I'd copy it to jolyon.sharpe@cornwall.gov.uk. Let them know your views. This is your opportunity and potentially the last one you'll get until 2020. I'd encourage them to put the current tender process on hold, to take stock, to consult. I'd question why beach safety is no longer the priority and that 'the tender sum will be the key criteria.' For something so big, this feels like it's being rushed through and not enough thought has gone into it. 

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I hope this is important enough for you to take a bit more time out to make your view known. Perhaps forward this letter to friends, if they love Polzeath, they too may wish to make comment. Polzeath's reputation is that of a safe surfing beach suitable for families. It's the flagship of Cornwall. Let's keep it that way. 

Pete (Surf's Up founder - 20 years standing waist deep teaching in moving water)

Happy New Year!! You may say that it's a bit late for all of that but if you were a Chinaman, you'd say I was a very premature.... or wewy pwemature (with free pwawn cwacker). You see, for the aforementioned Chinaman, 2013 begins on February 10th. It's the year of the Black Snake, a year of steady progress and attention to detail. Apparently focus and discipline will be necessary if you want to achieve what you set out to create (hm, focus and discipline? to be fair not my two greatest strengths!). Of all the signs, the Snake is the most enigmatic, intuitive, introspective, refined and collected, but you already knew that. 

 

I always thought 2012 had a great ring to it... and it proved to be one of the most memorable on many levels. I loved it. 2013? I don't know, just has that feeling of being a bit more challenging. And therefore maybe, focus and discipline, are indeed two good buzz words to move forward with. So what does that mean for us back here at Surf's Up! High Command? Well I think that actually the characteristics of the snake make for a good starting point.... looking at three in particular - intuitive, introspective and refined.

 

Intuition is an irrational function, it can be opposed to rational thinking, and that's been a strength of ours, at least I think, over the course of our history. We haven't been tied to what the head has told us, we're about heart and soul. Our company motto, "let the mind unshackle; set it free" - we're true to that. Intuition is as much about vision and placing your trust in that vision. And I think going forward, small businesses like ours have to stay true to their core values and yes be flexible, but not lose sight of what our company represents to our clients. Oh, this is deep! Deeeep!

 

Introspective, this is an interesting one because it can refer to oneself or that of the business. We're going into our 19th year here at Surf's Up!... and I know over that time, I've changed, as has the business. If we're to nail our two buzz words, focused and disciplined, then we need to take a good look at what we're currently doing, be introspective... recognise what we do well and what we could do better, and move forward with a determination to improve. That process is ongoing and needs to marry up and balance with intuition. Seems obvious, but when it gets a bit tougher, I think more consideration and time need to given over to these areas.

 

And then refined. Used as an adjective this word means, 'freed from impurities by processing'. Since 1995, we've gained enough experience, I think, to undertake that task of being introspective and to be self critical, to a point where we can produce a service that is better than before. Numbers of students through the surf school peaked about five years ago, leaving us now I believe with a great opportunity to deliver a better and more personal service than ever before. We've never been driven by numbers of clients or turnover, but by quality of service. When we began, I remember a  top dog businessman (we called him Parsnips, because his name was Parsons!) giving us the following advice, "Chase the quality of your service or product, don't chase the money." We can get better, for sure. That's what we're looking at now.. the how's and where's.

 

So yep, an intuitive, introspective, refined combo..... that's what we're gunning for in 2013! (hey Pete, lighten up dude and pass me a cwacker!). And relax, as you were, back on your balls! In summary, this is not a dress rehearsal.. I'd normally say at this point that we'll wait until we see the white's of your eyes, but that ain't gonna be the case this year. We're going to be so dialled in that you'll notice, well you'll notice that we're just going about our business, better.

 

Okay, some house notes!! Beach House (sleeps ten) availability as follows. Oh hang on, just got some hideous cramp at my desk... be right back....man, that hurt! Did the old pointy the toes to the sky routineand I'm back in the game.. oh yes.. 

 

Feb Half term: 7 nights arrival 8th Feb, 15th Feb, 22nd Feb - £650 including hire of surf equipment.

 

Easter Break: 7 nights arrival 29th March, 5th April - £850 including hire of equipment.

 

And then on the 29th March we have a few places left on our Duke of Edinburgh residential - 5 nights, £250 inclusive of 5 lessons and hire... staying at our Trenant Flat. 

My work here is done. First e-news of the year.... getting back into the swing. It's good to be back! I'm off to dip my crackers in some sweet chilli sauce!! You know I love you... 

 

P of the Deep Blue C x

 

ps please note I've justified the text, first time for everything!

Appletise!

Apple, Orange and UKMail have conspired to waste my life this morning!! Grrr... How many Apple Reps are going to ask me today where I was first kissed. (Yes, somewhere between the Balkans was funny a couple of days ago, but I'm feeling ever so slightly testy right now.) Apple decided that I couldn't remember my password, and I therefore had two options. Receive an e-mail or answer the security questions. Well, we've already established that I can't remember where I was first kissed. I was young, drunk, it obviously didn't mean anything..if I was pushed I'd say it was in an icy Strasbourg fountain back in the 80's but my recollection is hazy at best. I went for option one, but failed to receive the promised e-mail. So I rang them... and spoke to Iro in Athens who, rather than let the question go, I kid you not, has been trying to help jog my memory. Now unless it was her and she's bitter that I can't recall the encounter, that seems to me to be a completely fruitless exercise. Look just send me the e-mail, let me reset my password so that then I can buy stuff!! As I say, ever so slightly testy now!! This whole episode (which took two hours!) is compounded by the fact that I received a phone call before this to say that my £200 'free' upgrade Iphone 5 (Oh the irony) will not be dropped off today because there's no-where on the planet that goes by the first two lines of my billing address and the last two lines of my delivery address!! Excuse me while I slap my forehead really hard several times! Grrrrrr!

Anyway, how are you? It's a fine day, the sun's out, the birds are singing, the badgers are badgering. I'm here actually on business. (Following the Monday morning meeting with the curly cheese ball!).. response has been awesome to the Surf's Up! Hoody Bundles following my last e-news, they're flying out the door as we speak. Still some left, but please don't leave it too late... we don't want no tears, me dears. The desk top calendars have arrived hot of the press and orders are being processed as we speak. £8 each, £16 for two (!) can't say fairer than that! Nice little gift this one, have it on the desk at work or on the side in the kitchen. Whenever you check the date or it catches your eye, you'll be transported immediately to a land of happy days! Best ring us on 07760 126225 or drop us an email. Avian, our chief administrator and bear killer, is on stand by with sticky backed plastic and brown paper to action the orders as and when they come in...here's a sneaky peak at April.

The other thing that I must draw your attention to.. is that the Beach House remains available for Christmas. This would be a first. Can't believe it. If you've never been down to Polzeath for Christmas, then treat yourself. It's very special. A fresh walk on the beach on Christmas day, maybe a pop over to St. Enodoc Church on Boxing day for a sing song (I'm not a religious kind of guy but I enjoy a good old sing song), a bit of a dip, ride a few waves. I could go on, but let's cut to the chase... £600 for the Christmas period, 23rd to the 30th December! Sleeps ten normal people or 18 midgets. (Is that Midgetist? Not meant to be). The Christmas tree is already up and we're baking the mince pies as I write. Please either call us on 07760 1256225 or drop us an e-mail if it tickles your buds.