A paddle boarding business that offered free sessions to children and NHS workers has been left “absolutely devastated” after one of its large £3,000 paddle boards was stolen.

Andy Jobling, who owns Mavericks SUP at Llyn Clywedog near Llanidloes, was alerted to the theft when he returned on Tuesday afternoon (July 16).

The business’ popular 17 feet long blue and white inflatable paddle board can fit 10 people.

It is understood that the paddle board went missing sometime between 7pm on Sunday evening (July 14) and 3pm on Tuesday.

Mr Jobling is offering £500 to anyone who has information that will lead them to recover the paddle board or to the arrest of the person.

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“It’s a real gut punch,” Mr Jobling said. “We’re absolutely devastated.

“It’s pretty devastating.

“It’s definitely going to hurt us. It’s going to impact on us as a business. We just want it returned.

“We’re a small business. We’re not a big company. We do this for the community. This will impact us and the community.

“It’s not something you would sell. It’s so unique.”

The 17ft inflatable paddle board that has gone missing from Mavericks SUP at Llyn Clywedog.The 17ft inflatable paddle board that has gone missing from Mavericks SUP at Llyn Clywedog. (Image: Mavericks SUP)

Mr Jobling said he has contacted the police to report the missing paddle board which was kept behind a locked gate at Clywedog Sailing Club.

Three years ago, NHS workers were offered a chance to relax and unwind with a free two-hour paddleboard session on Llyn Clywedog as part of big thank you from Mavericks SUP.

Mr Jobling said he was inspired to give something back to frontline key workers after speaking with a paramedic about their experiences with dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.