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 This
was the first artificial course of this type to be built in the
country, located in Priory Country Park, 2.5km downstream from
Bedford. It has a dual function, acting as both a river flood
control and a slalom course.
It's a long concrete channel, in which fibreglass boulders are
fixed and can be moved to make different river patterns. It offers safe moving
water for paddlers at any level, and it's a good choice for newly promoted paddlers.
It seems to give an advantage to smaller competitors! The maximum drop is
1.7 meters, but it’s enough for a good white water training facility and you can
warm up on the main river.
The course is suitable for up to Division 2 Slaloms, and also for recreation groups to hire* and have complete control of the layout
and water levels.
 A new,
easier method of fixing the boulders has been
introduced. If you wish you can tour on
the river Great Ouse, one of the cleanest low level rivers in the UK, through
the Bedfordshire countryside.
Priory Country Park is a beautiful location teeming with wild
life - deer, otters, foxes and many different bird species.
Camping and caravanning are available on site, and there is drinking water and
an Elsan disposal point in the car park. Flush toilets (not very reliable) are
available in the car parks, and arrangements can be made to hire portable
toilets.
* Please note that open C2s are not allowed.
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