Young people in East Sussex are being offered the chance to take to the water by signing up for low-cost courses in sailing and windsurfing.

Spray Water Sports, the East Sussex County Council water sports centre, has obtained funding to offer the seven-week classes for just £25, reduced from the normal rate of £152.

The courses at the centre, on Royal Parade, Eastbourne, are open to anyone from the county aged 14 to 25.

Richard Wilson, centre manager, said: “These courses offer a great opportunity for young people to get into sailing or windsurfing at a very affordable price.

“They will give participants a good grounding in skills such as sailing across the wind, how to put a boat or windsurf together and basic safety and weather knowledge.

“The courses are aimed mainly at young people who don’t do a lot of sport at the moment and want to get more active, but are also open to those who may already be quite sporty but want to try something new.”

Funding for the classes has been obtained through Active Sussex, which distributes Sport England funds in the county.

The courses are running as part of Sportivate, a National Lottery-funded scheme aimed at capitalising on the legacy of London 2012 by giving young people access to sport.

They will be held on Sunday mornings from 10am to noon, beginning on 5 May, or Wednesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm beginning on 15 May.

No prior experience or equipment is needed. Membership discounts are available for those completing the courses.

Anyone interested in signing up is asked to call Richard or Craig on 01323 417023, or email spray.watersports@eastsussex.gov.uk