A WEST KIRBY wakeboarding icon is set to launch a series of autism friendly sessions at an inflatable water park in Liverpool.

Mikey Pinder, 33, was introduced to watersports in 2016 in a bid to help with his autism and having found passion for wakeboarding at the nearby Liverpool Wake Park, Mikey has gone on to compete in wakeboarding Grassroots Tour.

He has now partnered up with The Adventure Dock, based at Liverpool's Albert Dock, to champion autism-friendly water based activities.

Creator of The Adventure Dock Tim Woodhead said: “Adventure Dock is an absolutely fantastic place for anyone with autism and ADHD, we can provide a suitable and safe environment for anyone with additional needs.

"This is thanks in no small part to our fully-trained aqua guides, staff members and accessible location at Royal Albert Dock Liverpool.

“Mikey Pinder has been a great friend of our sister site, Liverpool Wake Park, for many years now and he is absolutely the best person to take these sessions forward.

"Having seen his passion for the water grow, along with his confidence in the sport, has been a real inspiration.

"We hope that with his help and we can share the joy of water sports with more people across the region.”

Mikey will now lead the new inclusive splash sessions to encourage more people with autism and ADHD to try water based activities.

He told the Globe: "In the last few years wakeboarding and watersports have changed my life, giving me more confidence, so these new sessions are a wonderful opportunity for me to now give others the chance to enjoy the same experience.

"Many kids have complex issues and many are dealing with sensory issues or ADHD and autism. I have found something that helps me and I want others to benefit too.

“I am so grateful to Adventure Dock for bringing me along to do this and I am excited to see as many people as possible tackling the course over the upcoming months.”

Mikey's Adventure Sessions will start from September 5 and will take place every Wednesday until October 24.

Those attending the fully-inclusive adventure sessions must be able to swim at least 25 metres un-assisted or with the help of a career, with the Adventure Dock Co providing all of the safety equipment needed including buoyancy aids, helmets and wetsuits all within the ticket price.

There should be one carer for each participant, these sessions not only offer an accessible activity for those with additional needs aged eight or above, but also value for money as carers can take part for free.

Tickets are just £20 per person with limited capacity, to book visit https://www.ticketquarter.co.uk/Online/the-adventure-dock-mikey-pinder