PENARTH youngsters have been urged to sign up for the trip of a lifetime aboard the Challenge Wales yacht.

Between June and September the tall ship, Wales’ largest sail training vessel, leaves Penarth Marina base and sails further afield taking young people on life-changing voyages.

The Challenge Wales charity is keen for Penarth residents not to miss out on the funding that is available to them to give them this opportunity.

The Challenge Wales Bursary scheme funds individuals and groups, aged 12 – 25 years, from 50 – 100 per cent to take part in Challenge Wales’ voyages.

Funding is currently available for some of Challenge Wales’ most exciting residential voyages of the year, perfect for those who are a bit older,16 – 25 years; sailing to Glasgow in readiness for the Commonwealth Games, Irish Sea Cruising and spectacular Tall Ships Racing with young people from all over the world coming together for one of the biggest spectator events this year which culminates in London.

Funding is also available for specific voyages aimed at those who are visually impaired, enabling them to come sailing with a friend and have all voyage and travel costs covered.

Vicky Williams, Trustee of Challenge Wales, said: “Many people don’t recognise the benefits of sail training and the work we do to develop individuals. Our funding is there to help as many young people as possible from Penarth, whether a youth group or individuals, to get onboard regardless of their background.

"Taking part in our personal development sail training voyages, learning new skills, meeting new people and developing confidence is also something that a CV will benefit from and can be used as the residential section of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. If you are aged 16 – 25 years, or know someone who is, then we’re keen to hear from you."

For further details visit www.challengewales.org or call 029 20 220 266