Newquay to host four surf-themed events this summer

Newquay is set to host four surf-related events this summer, bringing together surfers, filmmakers, businesses, artists and members of the wider board sports community.

The programme includes a new business conference, the return of the UK Surf & Skate Expo, the Wavelength UK Surfer Awards and the inaugural European Surf Film Festival.

The first event, Out Of Office, takes place on 24 July. Organisers describe it as a one-day conference for marketers, business owners and industry professionals, featuring talks on brand strategy, marketing, customer growth and leadership.

Also taking place on 24 July are the Wavelength UK Surfer Awards, which recognise achievements within the UK surfing community. The event will celebrate surfers, photographers, filmmakers, environmental campaigners and brands, with awards presented across a range of categories.

The awards ceremony will also include the announcement of the winner of the Newquay Boardriders' Expression Session, which took place earlier this year.

The following day will see the launch of the European Surf Film Festival at Wax Gym Hall.

The event will showcase a selection of surf films from across Europe and beyond, with screenings featuring work from a number of filmmakers and surf industry creatives. Organisers say the festival will also provide opportunities for audiences to meet filmmakers and surfers involved in the productions.

The largest event in the programme is the UK Surf & Skate Expo, which returns to Newquay from 24 to 26 July.

The event will feature exhibitors, surf and skate brands, athletes, board shapers, artists and retailers. Planned activities include demonstrations, talks, panel discussions and live events at venues across the town.

Organisers are expecting more than 20,000 visitors over the course of the expo.

Chris Thomson, chief executive of DYSUJO, which is organising the events, said: "With major new additions including Out Of Office and the European Surf Film Festival joining established events such as the UK Surf & Skate Expo and the UK Surfer Awards, Newquay is strengthening its position as one of Europe's most exciting coastal destinations for surf, skate and creative culture."

He added: "For visitors, industry professionals and locals this summer offers four compelling reasons to head west and experience the energy, innovation and community that continue to define Britain's surf capital."