A SAILING trust has launched a bid to raise £30,000 in just 72 hours to help disadvantaged children take to the seas.

The Cirdan Sailing Trust, based in Bradwell-on-Sea, is taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge to raise cash for the Voyage of Discovery Fund 2017.

The fund will enable disadvantaged young people to develop skills as they take to the water on a large sailing boat.

Among the young people supported by the scheme are those from deprived backgrounds, at risk of exclusion or failing at school, with special needs or behaviour issues.

The trust, set up in 1983, operates three large sailing vessels to take young people on the life-changing experience.

So far it has helped 32,000 children across the UK and believes sailing provides young people with important life skills as they work in a team, have to communicate and learn to be resilient.

The Dulverton Trust, which helps support groups looking for grants, has agreed to match any funds raised, meaning £60,000 is up for grabs.

Leonie Back, general manager at The Cirdan Sailing Trust, said: “This year we’re looking to boost the funds needed for our Voyage of Discovery Fund through the Big Give Christmas Challenge.

“If we can raise £30,000 through online donations in the 72 hours of the challenge, the Dulverton Trust have offered to match fund it to £60,000.

“This would be a fantastic start to our fundraising year enabling us to guarantee a life-changing opportunity for disadvantaged young people.”

People can donate at theBigGive.org.uk from noon on Tuesday.

The campaign ends at noon on Friday.

Visit cirdantrust.org for details.