An innovative Falmouth-based charity which helps injured war veterans by taking them sailing, has received a major donation.

Shaun Pascoe, a former commanding officer leading medical evacuations in Iraq and Afghanistan, set up Turn to Starboard three years ago. Now it has taken a massive step forward after ABF the Soldiers’ Charity, the national charity of the British Army, agreed a "significant funding" package to fund the cost of 16 veterans to take part in their Zero to Hero yacht master programme.

The project provides the chance for beneficiaries to gain internationally recognised sailing qualifications and help start new careers anywhere in the world.

Brigadier (Ret’d) Robin Bacon, chief of staff at ABF the Soldiers’ Charity, said: “You don’t often associate soldiers with sailing, but Turn to Starboard provides a truly unique way to help injured veterans. We are proud to support this charity as they really work hard to make significant changes to the quality of life of those they help.”

The Soldiers’ Charity began as the Army Benevolent Fund in 1944 and provides funds for soldiers and their families affected by conflicts. They offer help such as debt relief, mobility assistance, education bursaries and care home fees, in addition to offering grants to related charities.

Veterans need no previous sailing experience before starting the 16-week course. Budding sailors will sit 19 RYA courses, culminating in an RYA yacht master and commercially endorsed cruising instructor qualification.

CEO Shaun Pascoe said: “We are so pleased that the Soldiers’ Charity have come on board. They have been extremely generous and we are very grateful for their support. This funding will help provide Army veterans with sail training to prepare them for new careers.”

For further details visit www.turntostarboard.co.uk.