A fleet of Optimists tacked and gybed in the June sunshine as HRH Princess Anne, The Princess Royal looked on.
 
The royal yachtswoman visited Helford River Children's Sailing Trust today, Tuesday 29 June, to congratulate the scheme on being awarded The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service.
 
The Trust was founded in 1997 by John Green (pictured left) to allow local children an opportunity to take to the water to develop their confidence and competence.
 
Children from 13 local primary schools are taught how to row and sail, learning how to take responsibility for their own safety and have fun as well.
 
More than 3,000 children, including those with special needs, have been through the Trust's programme.
 
Some 100 volunteers work to ensure the scheme can be run at no cost to the children or their families. It was the commitment and effort of this team that won the scheme the 'Unsung Heroes' award.
 
Princess Anne spent several hours chatting with volunteers, supporters and the children on Pedn Billy beach, near Porth Navas Creek on the Helford River.
 
The Trust is financially dependent on the generosity of supporters.
 
To learn more visit www.hrcst.org.uk
Yachting Monthly, 30 May 2007