AN exhibition about paddle sports opened at the Old Fire Station Gallery in Henley on Thursday.

The week-long show, which aims to promote the Eyot Centre, Henley Canoe Club and the Henley Dragons, was officially opened by Mayor Elizabeth Hodgkin.

Canoes will be on display and there will be a series of information boards explaining more about the groups and members will be on hand to provide additional details.

Councillor Hodgkin, a trustee of the centre in Wargrave Road, said: “It’s a fantastic way of promoting what goes on down there — the centre is a wonderful way for young people to get to know the river in a safe environment.”

Pete Holloway, manager of the centre, said: “The exhibition will give people a bit of an idea about how the centre is used and maybe even persuade some of them to give it a try. So many people don’t seem to know we are here.” The centre has offered the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for the last two years and more than 80 children have achieved bronze, silver and gold awards.

Mr Holloway said: “Our long-term aim is to establish the Eyot Centre as the paddle sports centre in the South. As a charity organisation, funding can sometimes be difficult to come by but we have shown what can be achieved through sheer hard work and dedication.”

The centre has benefited from Henley Town Council’s half-price offer on the rental of the gallery during February. The council hopes it will result in more bookings.

The exhibition is open until Thursday from 11am to 5pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm at the weekend. For more information, visit www.eyotcentre.org.uk

Published 24/02/13