The first students to take degrees in surf science and technology are receiving their awards at Plymouth University.

The course was launched in 1999 amid much scoffing from critics.

But it has proved extremely popular says the university, and, according to one of the graduates, it is no place for a surf bum.

Jim Edmundson, 23, from Gloucester, is now working in sales for Bodmin-based wet suit manufacturer Gul.

No easy ride

He was attracted to the South West for the surfing, but the BSc surf science course also fitted in with his ambition to do a science degree.

"The degree was really, really hard," he said.

"I think the university was aware that it could have attracted bad press and they didn't want to make it an easy ride."

The course covered everything from business marketing to meteorology and "beach morphology" - or how the coastline is changing.

"I was never really academic before the course, but I really enjoyed it," said Mr Edmundson.

"Our tutors made science really interesting because it was slanted towards surfing, and the programme was diverse, exploring the whole of the surfing industry."

Hawaii honeymoon

And there were still the weekends to surf.

"I finished working at 5pm or 6pm and could be surfing until 10pm," said Mr Edmundson, who can often be found at Constantine Beach when its 'going off'.

He added: "Maybe I shall be able to get to Hossegor (in France) now I'm earning."

In the meantime, Mr Edmundson, who is marrying fiancee Lucy White, in January, is looking forward to his honeymoon in... you guessed it, Hawaii.