History

The HWATC centre has been used for canoeing and kayaking for nearly 50 years, originally part funded by Leicester Education Authority via the Leicestershire Schools Sailing and Canoeing Association, then later the Westfield Community College.

However in 1995 as a result of changes to outdoor education funding by the government of the day these activities could have ceased in the Hinckley Area. In order to prevent this from happening Hinckley Water Activities Training Centre was formed so that canoeing and kayaking experiences could continue in the area of Hinckley and surrounding districts for then general public.

Many of those original 'founders' continue to work with and support the Centre to the present day. We are very much community based and although we do charge for our sessions, all of our income is spent on keeping the Centre up and running.

Our staff are qualified volunteers who provide their services free of charge from a sense of commitment and the enjoyment of their particular sport. During this time thousands of local people have enjoyed our canoeing, kayaking and bell boating activities or have just come along for a taster of the sport.