Set sail

School children in Merseyside are being given the opportunity to join a voyage of a lifetime.

As part of an initiative run by the Wirral Safer Schools Partnership and The Tall Ships Youth Trust, two teenagers are being offered the chance to set sale on a tall ship.

Setting sale during October 2014 half term, the young people will be part of a team of forty Year 9 pupils from across Merseyside who will board the Stavros S Nyarkos brig on a trip around the English Coast.

Constable Colin Garland from Merseyside Police,  said: “The aim of this initiative is to develop self-reliance, team work and confidence.

“We have two places for two pupils, a boy and girl, and we are asking people to nominate their son, daughter, grandchild, niece, nephew, friend or even themselves and tell us why they/you deserve one of the places on this year’s trip.

“This isn’t a relaxing holiday though and everyone on board will be expected to work. The young people work a series of watches during their voyage and learn other sailing skills in on-board lectures and practical activities.”

Merseyside Police commissioner Jane Kennedy said: “I am delighted to be able to offer two young people on Merseyside the chance to take part in this once-in-a-lifetime trip.

“Merseyside has a proud maritime history and this is a fantastic opportunity to get a taste of life out on the seas. Alongside the physical challenge, this trip will give the winning teenager the chance to learn new skills, build their confidence and improve their ability to work as part of a team.”

The two additional spaces are being funded by the Office of Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner and The Tall Ships Youth Trust.

Entries must be no longer than 400 words and should be sent to Colin.Garland@merseyside.pnn.police.uk. Written entries can also be sent for the attention of Con Colin Garland, The Mosslands School, Mosslands Drive, CH45 8PJ. Full contact information including full name, address, email address and contact number must be included.