TEENAGER George Paxford has completed his seventh sailing trip with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, nine years on from finishing his cancer treatment.

George, 18, from Calne, joined 15 other young people between the ages of 18 and 24 in recovery from cancer on one of four yachts to sail around the south cost on the five day adventure.

The 18-year-old finished his cancer treatment in January 2006 for Osteosarcoma at Royal United Hospitals in Bath and has since completed six other trips with the Trust.

He said: “Since going on my first Trust trip when I was twelve, I've been back every year ever and I absolutely love it.

“It has given me a new hobby in sailing and my favourite part is being able to sail, meet lots of people and make new friends.

"It is difficult to explain, but when you are with people who have similar experiences it is a lot easier.

“It makes you realise you aren't the only one and you can still have fun, whilst having been through all this stuff. It is an incredible charity and I love it."

George and his crew departed from their south coast HQ in East Cowes Marina on the Isle of Wight before navigating the waters of the Solent and visiting various stopovers, including the picturesque town of Lymington and Poole's stunning natural harbour, before cruising back into Cowes.

Launched in 2003, the aim of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.

The Trust trips, onboard 42 to 48 foot cruising yachts, provides a chance for the young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment, encouraging them to work as a team and get involved in everything from helming the boat to cooking.

Dame Ellen MacArthur said: “The mental and social fall-out from cancer can be just as devastating as the physical illness. Everything we do is about building confidence, self-esteem and having fun together.”

In its 12th year, the Trust has grown into a national charity working with every young person Principal Treatment Centre and a growing number of Designated Units in the UK.

To find out more about ways to support the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust visit: www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org