A group of young people who have successfully completed a course designed to increase their confidence and motivation, were back at the beach to celebrate their achievements.

The young job seekers had all embarked on the five week Turning the Tide course run by Swanpool-based ElementalUK which saw them take part in a range of beach activities.

The initiative was backed by the European Social Fund Convergence Partnership.

Dany Duncan, who set up ElementalUK in 2006, said: “When you immerse yourself in the elements, the benefits are huge - your confidence increases, your understanding grows, you have fun, you become healthier, you learn new skills and you generally feel at one with the world.”

Mr Duncan added: “Participants have shown a total commitment and a passion to get the most out of the experience, continuing to attend despite some of the recent challenging weather conditions.”

Alan Wyatt, who attended the Falmouth course and has secured work with ElementalUK, said: “Going into work is the radist thing ever - that someone wanted me and made me think that if I do get given a chance I can prove myself.

“The course gave me confidence through both classroom based and outdoor activities to take the step back into work.”

Turning the Tide courses combine beach activities, including water sports, with team building plus practical classroom training which includes interviewing skills and CV writing.