by Alan Quick

LATER this month a Crediton teenager will embark on an eight day sailing voyage as part of the The Royal Dart Yacht Club Provident 150 Challenge.

Victoria Boxall-Hunt (19), who has lived in Crediton for about 11 years, is actively fundraising to pay for adventure and would welcome assistance.

Victoria, who has been actively involved as a member of Newton St Cyres Young Farmers’ Club for the past few years, said that the venture has been described as "a life changing opportunity" for young people across Devon.

After being successful in the application process, she will be joining 10 other young people from a variety of backgrounds on an adventure of a lifetime.

She explained: "During the sailing voyage, we will be participating in a ‘Small Ships Race’ on the 90-foot vessel, Provident, from Dartmouth to Gosport where I will be able to extend my sailing knowledge and skills.

"The challenge will provide me with many invaluable life experiences.

"Living in close proximity to other people will help to improve my ability to work as a team member whilst also increasing my self-confidence.

"Furthermore, the voyage will offer a prime environment for me to develop my strength of character, thinking optimistically and being able to motivate others, as well as myself.

"This, I believe, would greatly benefit my forthcoming time at university and my future career as a primary school teacher; young children need a positive and enthusiastic role model to motivate them in their learning."

Although each candidate is already being sponsored £500 by the Royal Dart Yacht Club, the cost of the trip is estimated at more than £800.

As a consequence, Victoria has a minimum amount of £300 to fundraise.

Recently she received a generous donation from Ashgrove Kitchens of Crediton, but she still has £200 left to raise.

Consequently, she would welcome any donation, big or small, from the good people of Crediton.

If you can help, please leave your donation at the offices of the "Crediton Courier" or for further details, please email: [email protected] .