The Ocean Youth Trust (OYTS) is holding its 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday 16 October at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

One of the organisation’s original vessels, Duet, will be open to visitors alongside OYT South‘s current vessel, the 72ft ketch John Laing (pictured). Speakers at the event will include Libby Purves and music and meals will feature throughout the day.

The OYT South event will bring together 400 people who have been involved with the charity over the last half-century – crew members, staff, volunteers, donors and many more.

OYTS is an organisation that helps disadvantaged children experience sailing and where they can gain social skills and confidence. Since 1960, the organisation has taken thousands of young people to sea, from the widest possible variety of backgrounds.

Post-OYTS voyage comments range from: ‘I have just returned from one of the most amazing experiences of my life,’ Alice (15), to ‘It made me understand that everything is possible,’ Peter (19).

OYTS voyages have been fully-booked or oversubscribed for most of the last three seasons, and they are developing exciting plans for a new purpose-built sail training vessel, which will be outlined to members and supporters at the anniversary event.

The 16 October event is almost fully-booked, but OYT South would be delighted to hear from any past crew members and supporters.

For more information, contact Caroline White on 07986 354697 or visit www.oytsouth.org