Young people given lessons in sailing at Rudyard Lake

SCHOOLCHILDREN are being given the chance to learn sailing at a North Staffordshire beauty spot. Rudyard Lake Sailing Club has signed up to 'OnBoard', a scheme run by the RYA, the sport's governing body. It provides low-cost sailing opportunities to schools and youth groups, and caters for eight to 18-year-olds. St Dominic's Priory School, in Stone, is one of the first to take part in the sessions. Now other schools are being encouraged to get involved. Young people can work towards sailing certificates through the programme. The OnBoard sessions are offered on Thursdays as after-school activities. Tricia Ordsmith, senior instructor at Rudyard Lake Sailing Club, said: "OnBoard is designed so that young people, regardless of age, gender or background, can be introduced to a life on the water and then have the opportunities to keep sailing regularly at welcoming, inclusive clubs." To find out more about the scheme, schools, youth and community groups can call the club on 01538 306200.