A BOAT show born out of the devastation of Storm Desmond is set to demonstrate how accessible water sports are to families in the Lake District.

Last year's show generated £1 million for the local economy and drew in 5,000 visitors over one weekend last year. It returns over the weekend May 17 to 19 with an emphasis on attracting more local people to attend.

“Yes, it is a boat show, but it’s not just about boats," said event director Joe Beaumont. "We want the Lake District to become renowned as a great place for water sports and adventure activities both on and off the water.

"There is so much to see, do and be immersed in within the lakes, we should not rest in bestowing the virtues of the area.

“We not only want to make people aware of how accessible water sports are to families in the Lake District, but show them how much is available on their doorstep and enable them to try new things.

“While we want to showcase everything the lake has to offer on and off the water, we want locals to try something new while they are here and be more involved with the show, rather than just spectate. So, we’re putting on free activities, including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing and mountain biking.

“And, we want to inspire tourists to get out of their cars and onto the fells and lakes and entice them to spend quality time here, rather than just a day touring around the towns in their cars on a day trip, which we hope will boost local businesses.”

As part of the initiative to get people out of their cars and exploring the Lakes in an eco-friendlier way, SonderBikes will be offering free guided trips across the lake to Claife Heights throughout the show.

And, for those who have never really sampled life on the lake, outdoor centre YMCA Lakeside will be offering canoe journeys, so people can try something new, while the RNLI and the mountain rescue teams will be letting people know how to stay safe on the lakes and fells during visits to the Lake District.

Environment awareness and how to make a difference while enjoying the Lake District will also play a part in the day with SeaShepard –a marine conservation charity with a mission to end the destruction of habitat around the UK’s coastlines - on hand to talk about the valuable work its does safeguarding eco systems.

When the boat show returns, Windermere will be awash with more than 150 boats, from small motor vessels to large luxury yachts.

Windermere Boat Show has become the event for unveiling of new boats and the testing of prototypes. Habitent’s initial prototype for its ready made and adjustable cockpit enclosure was conceived, proved and tested on the lake.

This year visitors can watch a wooden boat being made during the show. There will also be artisan food stalls, music, dancing and street entertainment. Bowness Bay Brewery will also be offering up a specially-brewed boat show beer.