A NINE-year-old girl who is recovering from cancer joined other young people in an inspirational sailing trip in Scotland.

Ella Rigg, from Milnthorpe, took part in the four-day voyage with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, set up by the famous sailor who in 2005 beat the existing world record for a single-handed non-stop circumnavigation of the world.

Ella, who finished cancer treatment in June 2015 for Neuroblastoma at Leeds General Infirmary, joined the crew of one of the yachts to sail on the Firth of Clyde.

She said: "I have had a lot fun, made lots of new friends and all the people are really kind and they look after you really well."

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Sailing onboard 42-48 foot cruising yachts, the trips provide a chance for the young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment, encouraging them to work as a team and get involved in everything from helming the boat to cooking.

Departing from their Scottish base in Largs Yacht Haven, the young people navigated the waters of the Firth of Clyde and enjoyed various stopovers including Port Bannatyne on the picturesque Isle of Bute, before putting their new skills to the test cruising back into Largs.

Dame Ellen, who tries to spend a day on as many trips as possible, said: "The mental and social fall-out from cancer can be just as devastating as the physical illness. Everything we do is about building confidence, self-esteem and having fun together."