Scotlands sail training charity wins in Peoples Millions

Hoisting the sails on Alba Venturer © OYTS

Leading youthwork organisation, Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYTS) last night won £50,000 in ITV's People's Millions vote. Its "Sea Change in Young People" project won massive public support to secure the money, which is awarded as part of a campaign that aims to recognise the UK's most deserving community projects.

The organisation states that 'residential voyages aboard our sail training vessels provide a uniquely powerful and extremely effective environment for personal development of young people from a diverse range of backgrounds throughout Scotland.'

Its Chief Executive Nick Fleming said, "Often the young people who'd most benefit from adventure under sail are the least likely to afford it. OYTS will now use the money to give 84 disadvantaged young people this life-changing experience."

Mr Fleming added "We are absolutely thrilled that the public has voted for us. Thanks to everyone who helped make this happen."

Amongst the supporters of OYTS's bid for the cash was Stuart McMillan MSP who lodged a parliamentary motion signed by MSPs from all parties, that supported OYTS' bid to win.

Mr McMillan said; ""As an Ambassador for OYTS I know first-hand, the excellent work it provides in supporting young people in our community and offering them opportunities to sail."

Jamie McGrigor MSP who signed the motion added, "The advantages of the "Sea Change in Young People" project are manifold. It offers participants an exciting and out-of-the-ordinary experience, can instill in them an aptitude for co-operating as a team. And it introduces many people from this generation to the beautiful coastline of Scotland."

Kevin Lafferty 19, from Barrhead said, "I've even sailed to Iceland with OYTS and it definitely changed my life. I have tonnes more confidence, enjoy new challenges and now as a volunteer, I get a buzz out of passing that on to other young people. It can really open doors in your life."