Surfing fans are descending on a Cornwall beach for the start of the sport's biggest event in the UK.

The nine-day Rip Curl Newquay Boardmasters competition attracts more than 200 surfers from around the world.

About 100,000 spectators are also expected to pack Fistral beach to watch the spectacular stunts during the free festival.

Top British surfer Russell Winter, from Newquay, said: "As the years have gone on, it's got bigger and bigger and better."

Newquay is the UK's surfing capital

Highlights of the festival include the longboard event, which began on Saturday morning, and the wild card competition, starting on Monday.

The most dramatic moves will be seen on Wednesday during the world qualifying event.

Top international surfers will be judged on their wave selection, manoeuvres, and length of ride.

Other highlights include the festival's legendary party atmosphere, with bars and clubs all hosting special nighttime events.

The competition began in 1981, and has grown in size and importance ever since.

Over the past couple of years, daily flights from London have boosted Newquay's popularity.

It is now the surfing capital of the UK, and is estimated to earn �30m from boarders.