Hengistbury Head Outdoors is opening its Friendships scheme as new summer activities begin at the site.

The community run wellbeing hub is launching a programme of watersports, fitness, yoga, wellbeing sessions, sauna experiences and seasonal events, following years of closure and a local effort to save the centre.

HHO Friendships are now open to everyone and are designed to build a community around the site while supporting its long term future.

Benefits include priority booking, activity discounts, parking benefits, free membership of the HHO SUP club, early access to events and a chance to help shape the centre’s future.

A watersports event will take place on Saturday 30 May, with paddleboard and sailing tasters, local clubs, partner organisations, talks and updates from the HHO team.

Guests listed for the event include Paralympic Paracanoe medallist Jack Eyers, Transatlantic rower Sally Percival-Foy, RNLI representatives, Will Behenna, Pilgrim Bandits and SUP and watersports experts.

Neil Woods, Director, said getting people back on the water again feels “incredibly special”, adding that the event is about helping more people discover how accessible being on the water can be.

The wellbeing programme begins on 1 June, with yoga, HIIT, bootcamp, Pilates, strength and core classes, family CoMotion sessions and creative activities in the Art Studio.

SloMo Sauna is due to arrive on 19 June, followed by a Summer Solstice celebration on 21 June with yoga, movement, wellbeing, food and connection.

Sara Glen, Operations and Healthy Communities Director, said HHO is about helping people “move more, feel better and reconnect with nature”.

HHO operates as a Community Benefit Society, owned by the community and run for community benefit.