A South Shore trader has set up an extra-special beach service after winning over some concerned residents.

Glen Johnson has set-up an eco and tourist friendly hire facility at Church Bay, and after less than two months of trading he has built up an enviable following from his satisfied customers.

But it all nearly faltered when one nearby resident became concerned about the granting of a permit to rent snorkels at the popular spot, and objected to the Parks department.

Mr. Johnson and his partner, Alex Madieros, had already been granted their permit and were due to start their mobile shop at the beach, when they learnt of the objection.

That meant they had to go through the applications process again, after previously having 180 names supporting them, but they managed to win over the 12-strong permit board once more.

And now they have proved a real hit with the locals and visitors who frequent the beach.

Not only do the pair rent snorkels and masks, but they also dispense information about the Island and act as ambassadors.

They clean up the beach, use their mobile phone to call taxis for visitors, administer first aid and hand out questionnaires for people to write their comments about the service.

"The tourists feel it was a good idea and I have had some who said they learnt more in 30 minutes down here than a whole week at their hotel,'' said Mr. Johnson.

"I think the fear was that it would turn into Horseshoe Bay, that it was going to be a permanent structure down there -- but the last thing we are going to do is turn it into Horseshoe Bay.'' The rental service, which runs from Monday to Saturday, has also proved a hit with the locals who appreciate the clean-up effort made by the pair after they leave at 5.p.m. The pair are on probation with the permit for 12 months, after which it may be renewed for another year, before being put out to tender the following year.

TAKING THE PLUNGE -- Trying snorkels and masks for size at Church Bay are Nikki Albanese (left) and Tracey Costanzo. The women, from Connecticut, were customers of Glen Johnson.

PLANNING PLN