A WIRRAL sailor who has survived cancer took part in a five-day yachting adventure to raise funds for a charity helping young people recovering from the disease. 

Alex Ibrahim was among 12 people aged 18 to 24 who took part in the inspirational trip for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. He was aboard the crew of one of four yachts that set sail from the Trust’s new base at Largs in Ayrshire on the west coast of Scotland.

The 24-year-old was treated for testicular cancer at Clatterbridge Hospital and this was his first time sailing with the Trust. He said: "I really enjoyed sailing against the wind, the more blustery conditions were awesome.

"The scenery was breathtaking and we learnt a thing or two, especially what port and starboard meant!"

The trip navigated the waters of the Firth of Clyde, which took them to various stopovers including Port Bannatyne on the Isle of Bute, before sailing on to the National Sailing Centre at Great Cumbrae for a BBQ and then back to Largs, giving the young people the opportunity to test their new skills on the water.

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

Recalling the trip, Alex said: "It's been really interesting to learn about other people’s experience with cancer, so good to see everyone so upbeat and positive.

"I'll be looking forward to my bed again, but it really was a beautiful trip to Largs."

This is the second year the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust has run sailing trips in Scotland, having set up their Scottish base in Largs in North Ayrshire in early 2013 thanks to funding from the players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

The expansion of their operation comes as part of a three-year plan to double the number of young people in recovery from cancer taken sailing.

Dame Ellen MacArthur explained the importance of the base in Scotland.

She said: "The fact we now have a base in Scotland so our services are easily accessible to so many more young people is a dream come true.

"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 their 11th year, the Trust has grown beyond every expectation into a national charity.