July 04, 2019 - 1336 views
A budding young sailor has impressed watersports bosses so much that he’s just become Junior Skipper of an innovative new club down at Porth Eirias.
Daniel Thompson, a year 8 pupil at Ysgol Bryn Elian joined The Sea Squad earlier this year at the start of a special project between Colwyn Bay Watersports and North Wales Neighbourhood Police Teams.
The club funded by the generosity of Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones and Arriva Buses Wales was set up to give teenagers the opportunity to learn watersports during the lighter nights and when boredom can turn into anti-social behaviour.
Daniel’s ability to master the art of sailing and learn how to rig up boats was quickly evident to club instructors. His enthusiasm to help the programme run smoothly was demonstrated by his willingness to arrive early to help get the club set up and stay late to assist with the packing up of equipment.
Taffy Osborne of Colwyn Bay Watersports said how impressed everyone was Daniel’s enthusiasm and hard work.
“Not only does Daniel help our staff run the club but he’s always on hand to show other club members what to do if things go wrong. He’s the perfect student and a real inspiration to the other young people who take part.
“We’re certain Daniel will go on to be an excellent sailor and inspire other young people to take up the sport. It’s only right that we acknowledge his contribution by making him the squad Skipper.”
Staff at Colwyn Bay Watersports have also clubbed together to reward Daniel with a place on a summer holiday youth 3-day sailing course to further help develop his potential and provide a good introduction to the world of volunteering.
“We can see Daniel making a good go of the sport and becoming one of the new generation of volunteers who make such a difference to clubs and organisations just like ours”, said Taffy.
Daniel begin his interest in sailing by joining Conwy Sea Cadets and trying out sailing on the All Afloat charity sailing programme.
