SCOUTS from the Tyne Valley have been testing out their sea legs off the South Coast.

Ten Scouts from Haydon Bridge and Hexham, along with leaders Andy Hamer and Rob Copley, sailed out of Portsmouth for a five-day voyage during the Easter Holidays, working with the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

The Scouts were taught how to operate the 22m Challenger racing yacht, and given various duties including cooking, cleaning and preparing the deck for sailing.

Andy said: “The trip was fantastic. The Scouts and leaders not only learned about the practical skills required to crew a vessel of this type, but it also gave a new perspective on what it means to be a member of a team.”