Kitesurfers' welcome return to Cornish beach (England) after a three-year campaign

The decision means that kitesurfers are back on the Bluff at the mouth of the River Hayle for a six-month trial period, which will involve buying a special pass and signing up to a code of conduct.

Lee Harvey, chairman of Kernow Kitesurf Club, was the first in line to receive his pass and welcomed the removal of the signs which signalled the ban.

"Pulling the signs down was a great moment and a breakthrough for kitesurfing, not just in the UK but the whole world," he said.

"With this achievement it shows that it is possible to reverse decisions that have been poorly thought out.

"Kernow Kitesurf Club was formed two years ago, as individuals were getting nowhere at fighting the ban.

"By uniting all the kitesurfers throughout Cornwall, we have formed a stronger voice and policy-makers are far more likely to take notice of us as an officially recognised club.

"We aim to protect access to all the kite spots throughout Cornwall and hope that our members will encourage everyone to abide by the code and form a good working relationship with Hayle Harbour, the fishermen and everyone who uses the estuary in the future."

The ban was imposed three years ago amid claims kitesurfing was making the fast-flowing river mouth impossible to navigate.

For the six-month trial period, kitesurfers will be asked to pay for a pass, which must be worn on their harness while on the water, and sign a code of conduct.

To be able to ride within the jurisdiction of Hayle Harbour Authority, kitesurfers have been warned to stick to the code, hold valid insurance and be a member of the British Kite Surfing Association.

Mr Harvey said failing to comply could mean rogue kitesurfers being handed a ?1,000 fine and causing an outright ban to be re-imposed.

He urged kitesurfers not to squander three years worth of meetings, discussions and campaigning to have the prime site reopened to the sport, and to ensure they bought a pass and signed the code of conduct.

He added: "We are hopeful in the future we will be able to accommodate learners and have a longer activity window. For now, we just need to prove that this licensing agreement can work.

"We would like to hear from local kiters who can help represent the club on the beach, and in doing so will be helping to secure our long-term future at this great venue."