A SEAFARING student has been all at sea and won a prestigious sailing award. Mitchell Lawrence, of The Meridian School, Royston, recently took part in the Rona sailing project, and was given the Scott Award. The award, named after Commander Walter Scott,

A SEAFARING student has been all at sea and won a prestigious sailing award.

Mitchell Lawrence, of The Meridian School, Royston, recently took part in the Rona sailing project, and was given the Scott Award.

The award, named after Commander Walter Scott, the first organiser of the trust, is given awarded to crew members under 16 years of age and is given to those who have proved to be reliable members of the crew and who are recommended to take part in further offshore sailing with the Project.

Mitchell said: "It was the experience of a lifetime, and very hard work, but well worth it."

The Rona sailing project has been taking young people to sea in large ocean-going yachts since it was founded in 1960. The scheme is aimed at young people aged 14 - 25 who want a taste of adventure.

Dr Michael Firth, head teacher at Meridian, said: "What a fantastic opportunity for Mitchell that he will carry with him for a long time. I hope that he continues to develop his passion for sailing.