THE Sail Training Association is on a run with increased business and the commissioning of two new ships Stavros S Niarchos and Prince William.

"Our cutting edge work with young people is well recognised but this year's new product range has been hugely popular,'' said chief executive Chris Law.

"We have introduced short youth voyages to tie in better with the new exam structure and one day taster experiences for adults, particularly parents and teachers. This summer we will see record numbers of people sailing on our ships.'' He added that full use of the ships was key to moving forward.

"We are extending our Tall Ships Days right through the year and we are already receiving a wealth of inquiries about our exciting Trans-Atlantic and Caribbean voyages planned for this winter.

"Linked with a constant review of operating costs, we are well on track for one of our most successful years ever."

The STA has replaced schooners Malcolm Miller and Sir Winston Churchill with the largest brigs built in the UK this century.