Those that know me know how much the James Cook has changed my life. I know it sounds really cliche but its true. That quiet, scared girl is not so quiet and scared anymore. It's given me so much more confidence and changed me as a person it's unreal. I've done so many things that I know I wouldnt have had the guts to do if it wasnt for that first voyage on James Cook. And I've met some fantastic people along the way. Sailing has become a massive part of my life and changed my goals, ambitions and priorities so much. I've found something I really love doing and now you struggle to keep me on land! Since my first voyage taking part in the Tall Ships Races 2010, I have become a regular volunteer for the trust and I have continued to sail, learn and grow with them, while getting to work with some fantastic groups of young people and be a part of the great work that they do.

So now I feel it's time to give something back. It has done so much for me its time for me to do something for them, and give other young people the opportunity to sail onboard James Cook like I had. Which is why I've signed up to cycle the coat to coast this summer. Now, before the beginning of this year, I hadn't been on a bike in over 6 years - so its going to be a challenge!

Here's the info on the challenge from the team page:

On the 3rd of August we are taking on this challenge to raise money for the Ocean Youth Trust North (OYT North). They are a charity specialising in the personal development of young people through the unique medium of ocean sailing. Through sailing they help young people, irrespective of their background, escape the difficulties the face at home. They acquire a range of life skills whilst working as part of a team and rising to the challenge of the sea. OYT North gives young people an experience that changes lives and inspires futures.

We relish the opportunity to raise awareness about OYT North and on a personal level make a contribution to help fund some deserving young people to sail onboard their sail training vessel James Cook.

Taking part in this challenge are staff, volunteers and friends of Ocean Youth Trust North. They include: Grace, Georgie, Mark, Matty, Emma, Laura, Sara - Jane, Graeme, Peter, Paul, Jamie, Ingrid and Joyce.

To donate is simple, fast and totally secure. If you are a UK taxpayer please ensure that you tick the ‘Gift Aid’ box so it can be reclaimed automatically on your donation. It’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now. We really appreciate your support and so will the young people that will benefit from your donation x