Falmouth based armed forces sailing charity 'Turn to Starboard' have been announced as the winner of the Business Community Impact Award as part of the Soldiering On Awards, 2020.

The awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of those who have served their country, and the diverse people and groups who work together in support of the armed forces community. This award honours a business that was started up by an individual linked with the armed forces, that has a made a real impact.

Turn to Starboard's win was announced during a 'virtual ceremony' hosted by actress Vicki Michelle MBE and Strictly Come Dancing's JJ Chalmers.

Jane Higgins, events and fundraising manager at Turn to Starboard said: “We are hugely honoured, I am here on behalf of our founder Sean Pascoe.

"It’s hugely humbling to be recognised for his work in this way and all that he has been through to create Turn to Starboard, the charity that it is and the support that it offers to military veterans who have suffered as a result of their service. Thank you all.”

Falmouth Packet:

Turn to Starboard's Jane Higgins at the 'virtual ceremony'

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Turn to Starboard is the only armed forces sailing charity to use the therapeutic benefits of sailing to support service personnel who have been affected by military operations. Its founder, Shaun Pascoe, served in the RAF for 16 years before discovering the benefits of sailing whilst recovering from PTSD.

Shaun was determined to share his love of sailing and change veterans’ lives. He has helped thousands of people since he set up the charity in 2012.

The charity gives veterans the opportunity to gain internationally recognised Royal Yachting Association qualifications ranging from Competent Crew to Yachtmaster Offshore. It also opens doors to future careers within the marine industry anywhere in the world.

JJ Chalmers, who is to appear in this year's series of TV's favourite dance show, said: “You are the very best of the veteran community which in turn makes you the very best of society. So thank you very much for everything you do, you make me extremely proud to have served.”

Vicki Michelle MBE said: “I’m just so honoured to be part of Soldiering On, I’ve been there from the beginning, it’s the tenth anniversary. It’s so worthwhile that people who wouldn’t usually be recognised are recognised. Thank you to soldiering on for doing this because I think it’s so important, and I love it!”