A TEENAGE sailor who helps youngster get out on the water had a date with royalty when she picked up a prestigious award.

As reported, Emma Bishop, 17, from Portland, was nominated for a Royal Yachting Association youth community award.

It is in recognition of Emma's commitment to Castle Cove Sailing Club in Weymouth, specifically running and developing the sailing club's cadets wing.

She was among 57 people who were recognised at the RYA Volunteer Awards.

The awards were presented by Princes Anne, President of the RYA, in recognition of boating’s most dedicated volunteers.

At the ceremony, held at One Great George Street, Westminster, London, Emma received her RYA youth community award in recognition of her commitment to Castle Cove Sailing Club.

Emma has been instrumental in the running and development of the Castle Cove Sailing Club Cadets for the past 18 months. She has reinvigorated the club’s training programme, ensuring race training is fun and enjoyable, and cadet numbers have substantially increased as a result of her involvement.

Emma said of the day: “The day itself was very surreal and was lots of fun; all of the other award winners were very friendly and chatty. It was amazing meeting HRH The Princess Royal; she was so chatty and very funny. It was a real privilege.”

An accomplished, competitive sailor and an excellent role model, Emma is a qualified RYA Dinghy Instructor and powerboat driver who provides support to the cadet officers and constant reassurance to the young sailors. She is now studying Activity Leadership and Leisure Management whilst working part-time.

RYA Director of Sport Development, Alistair Dickson said: “The RYA Volunteer Awards, sometimes known as the MBE’s of our sport, recognise the outstanding contributions made by volunteers nationwide.

“Today has been a fantastic opportunity to say thank you to the people that go above and beyond, giving that little bit extra to ensure others can enjoy the sport we all love. Volunteers really are the lifeblood of boating and it’s an honour to reward their efforts and give something back.”

Nominations are now invited for the 2019 RYA Volunteer Awards.

For more information about how to get out on the water in the south west visit www.rya.org.uk/go/startboating