Former marine kitted out by charity to teach sailing

A FORMER Royal Marine turned sailing instructor has received a donation of equipment to help others. Dan Fielding was medically discharged from the Royal Marines in 2008 and now helps veterans affected by military operations by teaching them to sail. The Royal Marines Charity, which helps former Marines make the transition to civilian life, heard that Mr Fielding was using borrowed equipment in his work with the Falmouth-based Turn To Starboard charity and realised he needed the sailing kit to protect him against the elements. The donation has allowed him to purchase kit including a Musto waterproof jacket and trousers, mid-layer jacket, gloves, boots and a gilet. He said: "The sailing kit I was using to teach beneficiaries was borrowed and only designed for short-term use. "We sail all year round so having the right equipment is essential as it acts as your safety equipment and provides protection from the elements. The new kit is high-grade and much more comfortable and means I can sail for longer distances. "It helps to keep my back injury warm, which improves concentration as I'm not distracted by the wet and cold. "I can't thank the charity enough for everything they have done to support me and steer me in the right direction." The 35-year-old became involved with Turn to Starboard after deciding to use his sailing experience to help other injured veterans. He joined the organisation last year and helps participants gain internationally-recognised qualifications to help start new careers. The charity also offers sailing trips to service families who have been affected by military operations. Sailing instruction takes place aboard chartered yachts and the 92ft replica tall ship the Spirit of Falmouth, donated by The Prince's Trust last year. The Royal Marines Charity recently formed after a merger of The C Group and The Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. The organisation support Royal Marines whose careers have ended prematurely due to injury and helps them to find a new path in the commercial world. They also help individual families who are in need, hardship or distress. Katharine Callus, from The Royal Marines Charity, said: "We came across Dan after he had been searching for a new career for a while, but not really knowing what to look for. "When he talked about being able to use his passion for sailing and working with vulnerable teenagers, Turn to Starboard seemed an obvious choice as a way of putting this enthusiasm and skill to good use. "He is a different person since he has found a way to do what he loves and earn a living, and we are delighted to have been able to help." For more details visit www.turntostarboard.co.uk