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Thurso surfing school North Coast Watersports delighted to be recognised in business awards shortlist


By John Davidson

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North Coast Watersports offer surfing lessons from Thurso.
North Coast Watersports offer surfing lessons from Thurso.

A Thurso surfing school has been shortlisted for an award celebrating the best independent businesses across the UK.

North Coast Watersports is celebrating after being nominated as a finalist in the Journal Magazine Awards.

The company, formed in April 2019 by Iona McLachlan and Finn MacDonald with the aim of sharing their love for surfing and the north coast, was shortlisted in the Great Outdoors category.

The judging was done by Alison Edgar, who is regarded as "Entrepreneur’s Godmother” to many of the world’s most successful business leaders, and Scottish TV presenter Zara Janjua, who selected the business as among the best in its category from over 600 nominations.

Under reasons for being chosen, the judges stated: "The popular NC500 tour in the north of Scotland is likely to become even more popular with attractions like this. Professional surfing and SUP-boarding lessons against a scenic backdrop."

Iona, who grew up on the north coast and is the current Scottish Ladies Champion, said: “We love sharing our passion for the sea and the north coast with everybody that visits us. It is fantastic to receive this recognition and I hope this encourages even more people to visit and try a unique experience unlike any other in the UK.”

Iona McLachlan and Finn MacDonald began the business in 2019.
Iona McLachlan and Finn MacDonald began the business in 2019.

The Journal Awards is sponsored by the luxury and lifestyle online platform Mór and CEO, Urchana Moudgil said: “It is great to see a local business such as North Coast Watersports being nominated for this award. The whole community should be proud, and I hope this encourages even more people to think about supporting local businesses.

"There has never been a better time for the business community to come together and support each other. These awards allow people to discover new and exciting independent businesses and brands who put quality, personal service and attention to detail above everything else.”

Members of the public can vote in the awards, with the voting open at https://journalmagazine.co.uk/vote until Wednesday, October 20.


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