A TEAM of intrepid Tavistock youngsters have been given the chance of a lifetime to sail in next year?s Tall Ships Race and are organising a variety of fundraising activities to make the trip possible. The ten teenagers were selected to take part in the Getaway Project as Year 11 students at Tavistock College last year and spent a week working on a tall ship. The owner was so pleased with the group that she has offered them the chance to sail her ship, Besse Ellen, in a leg of this year?s race. Unfortunately they could not raise the cash needed in time for this year?s event but they are organising a variety of fundraising events to collect money towards their expenses for the 2006 race. Quiz nights, band nights and car washes are just some of the ways the team is trying to raise the £7,200 total and they are hoping that local firms may be able to donate cash or raffle items. Team member Leanne James, 16, who is now working as a hairdresser, said the group learned a lot from the time they spent working on the Besse Ellen. ?It was really hard work, but good fun and we all learnt a lot. Ten of us worked together to sail and maintain the boat at sea, day and night. It was very rewarding and we all worked well as a team and learned many new skills,? she said. ?To take part in the race will be a chance of a lifetime and just brilliant fun.? The team are well-qualified for the event as they attended a First Aid and outdoor safety course before setting off on their last trip. They also trained and passed the RYA competent crew course during the voyage and have completed Bronze Youth achievement awards. So far they have raised more than £1000 towards their expenses and Tavistock College has agreed to bank and hold the funding for the youngsters. If anyone can help towards the expenses or donate an item for the group to raffle, contact the Tall Ships Expedition at Tavistock College on 01822 614231 ext 268.
