A group of youngsters was able to try sailing for the first time – thanks to a grant from the Local Network Fund. Ely Sailing Club bought three new Topper boats with the money, more than £6,700. Together with club funds, ESC has been able to buy a new fle

A group of youngsters was able to try sailing for the first time - thanks to a grant from the Local Network Fund.

Ely Sailing Club bought three new Topper boats with the money, more than £6,700.

Together with club funds, ESC has been able to buy a new fleet of six Topper boats, and youngsters between nine and 16 were out on the water last week trying sailing for the first time as part of the Set Sail Initiative.

The youngsters worked through the week, learning basic sailing skills, and gained their RYA Stage One badges at the conclusion of the course on Roswell Pits.

There were two sessions daily, morning and afternoon, and proceedings ended on Friday with a capsize drill.

Club commodore Clare Christan said: "It's about making sailing more inclusive and considering the weather, the children did really well."

The Local Network Fund money follows an Awards For All grant in April of £4,700, with which the club bought a new rescue boat.

Photo: HELEN DRAKE