A group of 45 aspiring yachtsmen and women who are blind or suffer visual impairment are to get the chance to achieve their ambition, thanks to the Royal Southampton Yacht Club.

The Club is to host this year's south coast Blind Sailing Week which starts on Saturday, June 30, providing an opportunity for aspiring sailors who suffer from visual impairment to get out on the water for a week's sailing.

Twenty-one boats are expected to participate and up to 45 sailors who suffer blindness or from visual impairment will get the chance to sail. Along with Club members and helpers, more than 120 yachtsmen and women will be involved in the week long exercise The event is organised by the charity, Sporting Activities for the Disabled, and the Club last ran a similar event two years ago.

Vice-Commodore Colin Lewis said: "Once again the Royal Southampton Yacht Club is hosting Blind Sailing Week and with the help of our dedicated group of members we are all looking forward to joining with 45 blind or visually impaired aspiring yachtsmen.

"It is always amazing how these guys and girls fit into the life on board our yachts and add to our own pleasure in this sport we all love so much.'' Boat owners and skippers, volunteer their boats and support for the week, and funds have been raised through a variety of events run by Club members Ben and Suzie James.

Each boat has a crew of two visually impaired sailors, two helpers, a skipper and mate. Everyone then enjoys a week on the water. The yachts are divided into groups with a lead boat. Some cruise locally and some will cross the channel.

Many thanks, The blind and visually impaired visitors arrive at the Royal Southampton Yacht Club on Saturday and after spending the week sailing conclude their adventure with a celebratory dinner at the Ocean Village Clubhouse on Friday, July 6.