IT looks like a cross between surfing and punting and now it appears Britain’s fastest growing watersport has hit Oxford’s waterways.

Paddleboarding is standing on an oversized surfboard powering through the open water, a bit like stand-up canoeing, but with one paddle.

Stephen Charters, 39, from Albert Street, Jericho, pictured, was perfecting his technique at the weekend on the Oxford Canal near the lock at Castle Mill Street.

He shelled out more than £400 for the 11ft board and paddle, allowing him and his wife, Oxford Mail picture editor Jessica Mann, to explore the city’s rivers and canals.

He said: “Paddleboarding is great fun and a fantastic way of keeping fit. It’s perfect for Oxford as there is so much water around.

“I haven’t had any complaints from other river users yet – though jokers are keen to point out that the surfing beaches of Newquay are in the other direction!”