The momentum is building for a major British surfing championships which will take place in the north this month.
Despite being in chillier climes compared with surfing meccas such as Santa Catarina in south Brazil, Bali or Mentawai in Indonesia, the surf conditions at Thurso are renowned as world class.
Organisers estimate that this event will bring more than 2,000 visitors to the area.
The spectacle will also allow Thurso to demonstrate itself as one of the best surfing locations in the UK and promote the region’s outdoor lifestyle.
Support from Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and Highland Council for the Thurso Surfing Championships has helped bring the top 10 competition back to Caithness.
Thurso councillor John Rosie said: “I am delighted that we have been able to again secure this prestigious surfing event for Caithness. Thurso East and Brims Ness are now regarded as having the finest surf in the UK, making it a must event for surfers throughout the country.”
More than 100 of the UK’s top surfers will compete on the waves off Thurso for the national title at the UK Pro Surf Championships from Thursday, October 30, to Saturday, November 1.
The event will showcase both professional and junior surfers with an emphasis on the next generation.
There will be a qualifying event to choose the elite junior surfers to represent the UK in series of international events next year.
Thurso surfer Andy Bain said: “Having the UK Pro Surf tour coming to Thurso this year with its open and juniors divisions will be a great event for the town.
“I think the local people now realise for sure that Thurso has some quality waves. This will also be a good opportunity for Scottish surfers at a competing level to enter the event, especially for the juniors who otherwise would have to travel to Cornwall to compete at such a level.
“I hope the event runs smoothly and is blessed with some quality conditions.”
SSE Highland liaison manager Ruth Liddicoat said: “The UK Pro Surf Championships present a very welcome boost for Caithness and Sutherland and we are delighted to take on the role of headline sponsor of this world-class event once more.
“I’ve tried surfing myself a few times and know how physically demanding it can be even at an amateur level – SSE wishes good luck to all those in training for this tough competition.”
Dave Reed, CEO of UK Pro Surf, said: “We are delighted to be working with all our partners to bring our National Pro surfing tour to Thurso – our professional surfers are looking forward to showcasing their talents to the local community.”