Hard graft makes sea-worthy craft (From Western Telegraph)

Hard graft makes sea-worthy craft

5:51pm Monday 17th September 2007 in News

Teenagers from the Milford Haven and Pembroke areas completed a 14ft sailing skiff under the eye of a newly established Community Interest Company, Boat Skwl, in Milford Haven last week.

The 14 to 16-year-olds, including one young offender and three youths supported by PRIDE, built the craft, Hard Graft with help from experienced boat builders.

Graduate yacht designer and design technology teacher Adam Edwards, of Hill Terrace, Neyland, and electrical engineer and design technology teacher, Steve Merrill were on hand to help out.

The project was endorsed by MP Stephen Crabb, who presented commemorative T-shirts to mark the end of the project.

Mr Crabb said: "Any social enterprise which helps to engage young people is to be congratulated, particularly where the skills achieved can lead to furthering employment opportunities."

The Youth Offending Team (YOT), the Probation Service and County Youth Service, were all involved in the project, and Milford Haven Port Authority provided free quayside premises at Haven's Head Business Park with additional funds and advice.

Nine other business sponsors also supported the venture.

The boat will now be sold to regenerate income to be re-invested in another project.