A GROUP of intrepid seafarers were weighed down with awards at Tavistock College last week as they received accolades for their outstanding aquatic achievements.

The ten sailors all took part in last year?s Tall Ship?s Expedition Getaway Programme where they spent four days sailing around the beautiful west country coastline.

Susie Emmett, Alexander Hodgson, Adam Holland, Sophie Larose, Emma Lashbrook, Becky Leithall, James Richardson, Peter Sedgman, Edward Turner and Simon McGowan all received ASDAN youth achievement bronze award certificates from Devon Curriculum Services Co-ordinator Brendan Stone.

The young people were also awarded with Royal Yachting Association awards through the Trinity Sailing Foundation and first aid certificates from Devon Discovery Mountain Medicine Training.

The Tall Ships Getaway Expeditions are organised by John Collacott, director of extended schools programmes and Sarah Parr, female leader, at Tavistock College.

The 2004/2005 Tall Ships Expedition takes place from 24-28 July this year with ships sailing from Plymouth down the south coast and around Land?s End to Wales.

Ten free places are available to 16 year-old Year 11 students as the expedition is funded through a £6,000 grant from the New Opportunities Fund.

Anyone wishing to take part should contact John Collacott at Tavistock College on 01822 614231.