A NEW inclusive Sailing Trust has launched in Barry.

Celtic Capability Sailing held a successful launch event in Pier 64, Penarth, on Monday, October 15.

The Sailing Trust was founded by Wendy Hopkins after her son had a serious accident in 2016 that ended his professional sailing career.

She brought a team together to create the trust that aims to provide sailing experiences for all but reaches out, in particular, to young people who are disabled or disadvantaged.

Celtic Capability Sailing offers sailing experiences at Barry Waterfront.

Groups can book a sailing session for £10 per person, with safety equipment and instruction provided.

The Trust currently sails in a stable keel boat, but has plans to buy another boat and extend activities to rowing and even boat building in the future.

Tom Hopkins, whose experience inspired the new Trust, boarded a boat again this summer for the first time after his accident.

He said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my sail. It’s so nice to get back on the water.

“I never thought I’d be able to do this again, but here I am.”

At the launch event, the Celtic Capability Sailing team introduced the project to distinguished guests, supporters and organisations representing disadvantaged and disabled young people.

Guests saw the Trust’s 20-foot sailing boat ‘Artemis’ close up and heard that the boat was bought following a £20,000 donation to the Trust.

Further fundraising is necessary to realise future plans.

Founding director, David Jenkins said: “We are so grateful for the generous support we have received to date.

“We are working to grow the project and reach out to as many disadvantaged and disabled young people as possible.

“We are building links with other sailing organisations to enable the young people who sail with us to develop their new skills in other settings too, if they wish.”

Sailing is currently recruiting experienced sailing instructors.

For further information, visit capabilitysailing.co.uk