A DARLINGTON youngster recovering from cancer has enjoyed an inspirational sailing trip with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

Thomas Atherton, 12, from Middleton St George, was one of a 13 brave youngsters battling the disease who were treated to a five-day sailing trip on the Firth of Clyde in Scotland.

For Thomas, who finished treatment in December 2012 for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, this was his second time sailing with the Trust.

He said: “I came back because the other trip was brilliant, I can’t think of anything that I would change about it.

“Everyone on the trip already knows how you feel so you don't have to explain yourself.

“The volunteers are really enthusiastic."

Sailing onboard 42-48 foot cruising yachts, the Trust trips provide 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.

Thomas continued: "My favourite part was driving the boat.

“The location is amazing, nice and beautiful.

“I have genuinely enjoyed being in this environment – to anyone who was thinking about coming I would tell them to definitely go for it!"

During the trips, the Trust fleet navigates the waters of the Firth of Clyde, making various stopovers including Port Bannatyne on the Isle of Bute, the National Sailing Centre at Great Cumbrae and back to Largs, giving the young people the opportunity to test their new skills on the water.

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.