Sponsored windsurf along the Dorset coast raises £750

Youngsters aged 13 to 16 took part in a sponsored windsurf along the Dorset coast from Portland Harbour to Durdle Door in aid of the Will Mackaness Trust.

The group, all from Weymouth and Portland, have received training at the Official Test Centre (OTC), subsidised by the charity.

The OTC is based at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

Managing director Tris Best said: “They all did amazingly well, especially considering some of them had not been out of the harbour before.

“In fact there are not many people their age in the country who would have the skills to undertake this sort of thing.

“They are windsurfing to a very high standard, and that is thanks to the Will Mackaness Trust which helps people access the sport.”

The trust was set up in memory of Will, who died in 2008, aged just 16.

Donations and fundraising activities help to provide opportunities for youngsters in Weymouth and Portland to try watersports, which was one of Will’s passions.

Tris said: “The group like to do something every year to give something back and, as their skills are progressing, so are the challenges they are setting themselves.

“Last year they did sunrise to sunset, where there was a member of the team on the water for a whole day during the hours when it was light.”

He added: “It’s even started to grab the attention of the national press, with windsurfing and watersports magazines picking up on what they are doing, which is great publicity and helps us to spread the word.”

Conditions on the day were challenging and after a quick dash to Ringstead Bay where the team enjoyed refreshments on the beach, a sea swell and gusts of wind meant windsurfing became more difficult.

They made it to Durdle Door at 4pm, after setting out at 8.30am.

The teenagers have raised more than £750 so far and donations are still pouring in.

To help, visit www.uk.virgin moneygiving.com/team/willsweymouthwarriors