Seven go on trip of a lifetime

SEVEN young people from Warrington who set sail on the trip of a lifetime have arrived home ship-shape and brimming with confidence.
The group, all aged between 13 and 17, took part in the Tall Ships Youth Trust programme which helps young people develop their confidence and life skills and promotes a healthier lifestyle through the excitement and challenge of sailing.
They went on a 265-mile voyage from London, to Ramsgate, to Dover, to Portsmouth, then onto the Isle of Wight, Weymouth and finally Brixham.
All the young people were given a certificate from the crew on their last day and worked towards a recognised qualification which they all successfully completed.
Project co-ordinator Jaime Graham, from Warrington youth support service Steps In, said: “It was a pleasure to witness the young people taking part in, at times, difficult tasks. They worked as a team and it was great to see their self esteem develop.
“The weather was difficult but they kept going and were a credit to young people in Warrington.”
Tasks they undertook on board included setting the sails, scrubbing the decks, learning how to use the helm and providing meals for 15 people.
Keiron, 13, said: “I enjoyed meeting the crew and learning how to do a figure of eight knot, and about health and safety on the ship and why it is important. I also learned how to use a compass and map and how to set the sails. I have a lot more confidence now.”
Pictured: the group onboard the sailing ship Provident