A MARITIME hero from Darlington has sailed through to the finals of a prestigious awards ceremony.

David Clarke is one of three finalists in the Old Pulteney Maritime Heroes Awards, having been recognised for his efforts in developing the Ullswater Yacht Club, where he is Sailing School Principal and director.

Since its inception, the club has trained more than 1,200 people of all ages and experience levels, including many with limited mobility.

Commodore Peter Lewis from the club said members were proud of Mr Clarke, adding: “We are delighted that David has reached the final.

“After all of his hard work in creating and supporting the sailing school, it is wonderful that our own maritime hero is being recognised at a national level.”

If successful in the Club Service category, the 55-year-old will win £1,000, a trophy and a bottle of Old Pulteney 21 Year Old, voted world whisky of the year in 2012.