A cancer survivor has taken part in an inspirational sailing trip with a yachting legend.

Samuel Benson, 21, of Halstead, to sailed around the Solent in a five-day adventure organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

Launched in 2003, the aim of the trust, set up by world-record winning Ellen MacArthur, is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.

Sam, of Vicarage Meadow, Halstead, finished cancer treatment in February 2014 for secreting germ cell tumour - a type of brain tumour - at University College London Hospitals.

He said: "I went on a trip last year and I loved it.

“Because of my illness, I had really bad balance issues.

“I was scared I was just going to fall off, but I managed it and this year I've got so much better at my capabilities, so I thought – I've got to do it again.

"The experience has improved my social skills, I talk to my family and friends, but the trust has made me more approachable, improved my confidence and made me work better within a team."

Departing from their south coast headquarters in East Cowes Marina, Isle of Wight, on September 6, the trip navigated the waters of the Solent, which took them to various stopovers, including the picturesque town of Lymington and Poole's stunning natural harbour.

Dame Ellen, who tries to spend a day on as many trips as possible, 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.”