Gyllyngvase Surf Lifesaving Club's new chairman has bid farewell to "visionary" outgoing chairman and co-founder Matt Stone.

Simon Thomason was elected to the role at the club's tenth AGM on Sunday December 9.

He said "I just wanted to give something back to the community because of what they have done for my two kids, and on a personal level.

"I jumped at the opportunity when Matt mentioned I should put myself forward. He's a visionary person, and the club is something we don't want to lose in Falmouth because it's a very important part of the community."

The club has gone from strength to strength over the years and now has around 220 members, with 120 'nippers' on the waiting list.

Simon, whose children Isabelle and Felix have been members since the age of eight, expressed his gratitude to Matt and outgoing vice chairman Reggie Christopher for their hard work over the years.

He said: "They sailed the ship for ten years and without them none of this would have happened in any shape or form. Their commitment has been the cornerstone of the club."

Although they are stepping down from their positions on the committee, Matt and Reggie still plan to be involved in the club's activities.

Simon said: "They're still volunteering, in particular Matt as a full lifeguarding coach. He's a valuable part of the coaching staff and he's going to continue to support us.

"It's great to know that they're still about and want to do what's best for the club."

As well as offering lifeguarding training, members take part in regular lifesaving sport events, testing their skills against other clubs from around the world.

For more information on the club visit: gyllysurf.org.uk.