Published on:
30
July 2012
Following the highly successful Tall Ships project in 2011, Ocean Youth Trust Scotland, COSLA, and Young Scot have developed an annual series of COSLA New Horizons voyages.
Three young people from each local authority were selected to take part in this life changing experience.
The Clackmannanshire representatives were Scott Paterson, Michael Murray and Kris Christie. The three young people set sail from Oban on Monday, 16th July on board the Ocean Youth Trust Alba Endeavour vessel and sailed 160 nautical miles around the Western Isles taking in the sights of among other islands, Mull and Iona. They returned to Oban on Friday, 20th July.
The three Clackmannanshire youngsters said on their return: "We had a great time. It was the experience of a life time and we would recommend it to any young person'."
The whole experience of life on the vessel was really hard work but they enjoyed every minute of it and at the same time had the chance to take in views of Scotland that they said were fantastic. They also got the chance to meet new people and develop new friendships.
Clackmannanshire Council's Education, Sport and Leisure Committee Convenor, Councillor Ellen Forson said: "We were delighted to be part of this annual series of COSLA New Horizons voyages, and the three people who went from Clackmannanshire will have benefitted greatly from the experience and it will something which they will keep with them for the rest of their lives.
"We look forward to continue to support this marvellous project in future years."
Following the expedition the three young people have signed up to do their Gold level Duke of Edinburgh Award and will be volunteering with Youth Service to develop a programmes for other young people.