Solomon Jacka from Redruth joined 15 other young adults in recovery from cancer to take part in an inspirational sailing trip with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust.

The 18-year-old joined the crew of one of four yachts, to sail around the Solent on a five-day yacht adventure. For Solomon, who finished cancer treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Lymphoma (ALL) at the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, in May 2008, this was his fifth trip with the trust.

He said: "It is easy to get along with people on these trips. We all share a common background so we can relate to each other. Everyone is really friendly."

Sailing onboard 42 to 48 foot cruising yachts, the trust 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.

Solomon said: "It's just a great experience really. I've been on so many trips, I just keep coming back because they are so much fun. It definitely builds your confidence. Even in jobs and stuff, it helps with teamwork."

Launched in 2003, the aim of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.

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."