promising junior surfing career, but took four years off to work in the WA mines.

Stevenson was content to free surf, chasing big waves around the world, but last year decided to return to competition.

On Friday he nearly claimed the biggest scalp in the men's tour.

With three minutes left in their heat, De Souza trailed Stevenson and Michel Bourez from French Polynesia.

The Brazilian scored a 6.23 to take the lead, but had an anxious wait as Stevenson also had a good ride in the last minute.

Stevenson scored a 5.27, falling just short 11.23 to 10.6.

Big names yet to have their round-one heats include Kelly Slater, Joel Parkinson and Matt Wilkinson, who won the opening world tour event at Snapper Rocks.Snowdonia National Park granted dark sky status Published duration 4 December 2015

image copyright Keith O'Brien

The night sky above the Snowdonia National Park has been granted special protection.

It has become Wales' second and only the 10th destination in the world to be granted the status of an international dark sky reserve.

It means the quality of the night air is outstanding and real efforts are being made to reduce light pollution.

The successful bid was announced at the Dark Sky Institute in Arizona, United States.

"Receiving this designation is very good news for the residents, businesses, visitors and the wildlife of Snowdonia," said Emyr Williams, chief executive of Snowdonia National Park Authority.

image copyright Richard Outram

"Unfortunately, the opportunity to enjoy the night sky and its stars is in decline, the living patterns of