A sign on the 130-year-old pier at Saltburn-by-the-Sea warns people not to jump off it. On a big surf day surfers make their way to the end of the sturdy 206 metre structure and jump like lemmings into the cold, murky North Sea. Words: Simon Palmer Photos: Ian Forsyth

When his career as a pro surfer was ended by cancer, Richie Lovett forged a new career in the manufacturing industry. Now he's singing the praises of machine-shaping technology. Words: Chris Preston Photos: Jamie Bott

Sean Mattison has a reputation as a designer, a coach, and a businessman. His competitive experience, retail background and knowledge acquired from testing hundreds of surfboards made him one of the most versatile surfers in California. Words: Rui Ribeiro.

From WQS warrior to independent filmmaker via a AUS$27,000 debt, Johnny Abegg has trod an unconventional path through life so far, and proves that a relentlessly positive outlook and upbeat character can see you through the toughest times... Words: Mark Sankey Photos: Johnny Abegg

In Florianopolis - Brazil's surf capital - during prime swell season, an incomplete line-up gets Clare Howdle thinking... (Photos 2, 3, 4&8: André Côrtes; photos 1&7: Zander Grinfeld, www.venncreative.co.uk)

Crime and punishment, it's all relative. A brush with the law is nothing more for most of us than a speeding fine or curt telling off, but we're a very privileged bunch... Words & photos: Carly Lorente


A taste of Ben Howard

January 26, 2011 | Words By: Ali

Although probably best known for his music, this Devon born singer songwriter is also a surfer and an active member of Surfers Against Sewage. Ben’s unique percussive guitar techniques and stand out vocals make him one to watch and that’s exactly what I was doing last month at Newcastle’s intimate venue The Other Rooms.

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Digital vs Analogue

November 17, 2009 | Words By: Ali

ali_mc_holga_portrait_resize275x195The North East of England has the most amazing surf on offer if you know exactly where to find it. Seems I looked in all the wrong places during July this year as it was flat, flat, flat. Not to be defeated I packed my van ready to chase waves… the Outer Hebrides and Devon were calling!

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Hells Bells… SHARK!!!

September 01, 2009 | Words By: Ali

ali_mc_holga_portrait_resize275x195Still striving to improve my surfing I jumped on a plane from Indo to Australia touching down in Melbourne. Buzzing from the Indo experience, I was on a mission to get straight back in the water.

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