All WSA members have been contacted via email.

This offer will ensure that WSA members will be fully covered by insurance and hold a waterways licence for 12 months, through membership of British Canoeing, Scottish Canoe Association, Canoe Wales and the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland for members based in their respective countries.

This offer will apply to all WSA members with a valid membership at the time of liquidation, including recreational individuals and family members, alongside those who have received certification as a WSA instructor.

British Canoeing’s Chief Executive, Ashley Metcalfe, said: “We want paddlesport to be accessible for all and we are delighted that British Canoeing, along with the home nations, can support the Water Skills Academy members with a support package.

“As the joint national governing body for paddlesport, we are happy to offer membership support for the WSA members to enable them to continue to paddle with access to a river licence, insurance as well as a host of other membership benefits to help them get on the water.

“This is a great opportunity for those who hold a WSA Instructor certificate to gain a regulated qualification that is recognised by Ofqual, Qualification Wales, the CCEA and the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity, providing reassurance to those delivering and participating in Stand Up Paddleboarding as an activity.”