on the water
Island Life - June/July 2010
Photo: John Laing moored at Cowes
the winter – it was something to get involved
condition because the last thing we want to
with as a team.”
do is cancel a voyage for a children’s hospice
Other guests included Val Gwynne, who
kindly donated a sextant to the John Laing:
due to a mechanical problem.”
The High Sheriff, speaking next, noted the
and Andy Cassell, Paralympic Gold medalist.
changes to life in 50 years: petrol at 2p a
Sadly missed were Maj Gen Oliver Roome
litre and beer at 1/6. “One thing that hasn’t
and John Ager, stalwart supporters who have
changed is the need to encourage young
passed away.
people to believe in themselves,” he said.
Mark Todd described the life-changing
Thanks went particularly to Marion Heming,
effect a voyage in sail training ships can have
Peter Coke and Brian Mead of the Island
on young people, whether they are from
Support Group, who organised the event.
a disadvantaged background, have special
OYT South is one of four regional charities
needs, are ill, or simply shy. “We want
that are the successors to the Ocean Youth
everyone to leave the boat with a feeling of
Club (OYT South, OYT Scotland, OYT North
success.”
East and OYT Ireland).
Support from volunteers is paramount, he
Donations please to OYT South, Unit 8
said: “Last year the 62 volunteer staff gave
North Meadow, Gosport, PO12 1BP. Tel:
us 935 days of their time. We need to raise
02392 602278 www.oytsouth.org
£125,000 a year to keep the boat in top
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