A 12-year-old from St Albans who battled cancer last year said a recent sailing trip was 'fantastic'

Amber Clifton took part in an "inspirational" sailing trip with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, along with 25 other young people between the ages of 8-18 in recovery from cancer.

Amber, who is on maintenance treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, joined the crew of five yachts to sail around the Solent in August for a four-day yacht adventure. 

The Bullens Green Lane resident said: "To be honest I didn’t really know what to expect as I’ve never really had a passion for sailing, but I really did enjoy it."

Sailing onboard 42- 48 foot cruising yachts, the trips provide a chance for the young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment, encouraging them to work as a team and get involved in everything from helming the boat to cooking. 

Amber added, "I learned to tie all the knots and even did the hard work of scrubbing the decks. I’ve got along with everyone really well also and I’m sure everyone will stay good friends. I loved the speed boat ride around it was so much fun."

Departing from their south coast HQ in East Cowes Marina, Isle of Wight on Monday the trip navigated the waters of the Solent, which took them to various stopovers including Yarmouth Harbour and the picturesque bay of Newtown Creek for a BBQ. Before putting their new skills to the test cruising back into Cowes. 

Amber explains the impact of the trip, "It’s a really good trip and there is no need to be nervous, everyone has been through the same things so it’s really easy to make friend.  I certainly changed my mind about sailing and would love to give it a go again."

Dame Ellen, who tries to spend at least one day with every four-day trip over the summer, said: "The mental and social fall-out from cancer can be just as devastating as the physical illness. Everything we do is about building confidence, self-esteem and having fun together."

In their 11th year, the trust has grown into a national charity which relies on voluntary funding.
For more information on the trip visit: http://www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org