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The name Ben Skinner often features in surfing success stories. The Cornish surfer is one of Europe's most successful longboarders of modern times, and is currently enjoying a run of wins.

"I'm feeling pretty good at the minute, everything's going well," says Ben Skinner.

Ben Skinner

"I've been working really hard on my boards and have come up with a new design which is phenomenal."

Skinner's unstoppable run of form continued at Watergate Bay on Saturday 20 June as the Newquay surfer picked up another competition win with a masterful display on the waves.

"I'm on a roll and I feel like it's going to help me step my surfing up a level. After Japan I'm going straight on to Costa Rica for the World Surfing Games, so this is a real good foundation for that. I just want to keep the momentum going and hopefully do well there as well."

Also impressing in the challenging conditions at Watergate Bay were a strong contingent in the Junior division.

The strong onshore wind didn't do much for the 3ft swell, but the competitive drive and enthusiasm of the surfers won through, as did St Agnes surfer Trevelyan Garland who increased his rankings lead over Mike Lay (2nd) and Matt Travis (3rd).

Ben Skinner

Jersey's Grace Davies claimed victory in the Ladies division, edging out Nicola Bunt in second and Candice O’Donnell in third.

For event organiser Minnow Green, it was heartening to see the British longboard scene in great health:

"It's been a great day, some testing conditions, but a good atmosphere, good turnout and the sun's been out which has put a smile on most people's faces.

"The Juniors are the growth of the sport. Trevelyan Garland from St Agnes is leading the pack at the moment, but Mike Lay and Matt Travis from the Sennen area are pushing all the way, and we've got a new kid on the block from Bude, Lewis Stritch, who is only 14, and made his second final today, so the standard's looking good to continue for a few years yet.

"But the outstanding surfer today? I've got to give it to Ben Skinner - he's won every heat he's been in."