A scheme launched at Teignmouth to encourage more people of all abilities and ages to take to the water, was a huge success.

The Even Keel week enjoyed superb weather and dozens of people, including the disabled, were able to try out Artemis 20 yachts, which are suitable for both complete novices and the more experienced.

A fleet of the world class boats is now based at Teignmouth, and the Even Keel project is also promoted by the Dame Hannah Rogers Foundation at Seale-Hayne, along with Kingsteignton boatbuilder Seaswift.

Steve Harrison, from Seaswift, described it as an 'amazing week'.

'The weather held and we were able to go sailing every day without interruption,' he said.

'We ended the week with over 120 people of all abilities coming out for a sail.

'Teignmouth did itself proud – supportive and friendly throughout the week. The town has won many new admirers from all over the UK.

'Many of them had never been on the water before, and it has genuinely changed lives.'

He added: 'We put everything into setting this week up, and are so proud to be associated with such an amazing project. The week exceeded all our expectations, and we look forward to the next event on the Teign.'

Mr Harrison thanked all those who took part or helped, including the harbourmaster and harbour commission for use of the river and pontoon; the Dame Hannah Rogers Foundation; the Ship Inn for being such 'great' hosts, and the RNLI for a demonstration exercise.

One of those who took part, Kelly Morton, added: 'A big thank you to everybody for teaching me. I loved every minute, and am still bouncing off the walls from it all.

'I really want sailing to be part of my life now.'

Pictured here with the mayor of Teignmouth, Cllr David Cox, on the final day, are some of those who helped with the week.