England: Fynn Gillespie and Belle Betteridge Crowned 2026 English Surfing Champions

Young surfers Fynn Gillespie and Belle Betteridge, both 19 and raised on the powerful waves of Croyde in North Devon, were crowned the 2026 Open Division English National Surfing Champions after delivering standout performances at the Caravan and Motorhome Club English Nationals.

• Fynn, who later moved to Newquay, and Belle battled through fierce competition in chunky, overhead conditions at Fistral Beach to claim the men's and women's titles respectively.

Personal triumph:

Their success celebrates homegrown talent, years of dedication on the UK's rugged coastline, and the strength of the vibrant grassroots surfing scene. From local Croyde roots to national champions, their journey inspires the next generation of British surfers and highlights the depth of emerging talent in England.