The Onchan Youth Development Fund
and
The Greater Manchester Challenge

What is the Greater Manchester Challenge?

It is a 76’ steel built ketch – a sail training vessel offering adventure under sail to young people.

Who are the crew?

There is a skipper, 1st and 2nd mates and a Bosun who are all fully qualified and experienced and then there are those young people who have been successful in gaining a place! They take part in all aspects of running the boat, from sail setting and navigating to cooking and cleaning.

It is a great character building experience, learning new skills, and to have consideration for others, working as part of a team, as well as having a highly enjoyable and motivating experience.

Who runs and funds the boat?

The Ocean Youth Trust was founded in 1960, and is a consortium of registered charities. It’s North West branch operates the Greater Manchester Challenge. The vessel previously used was the Francis Drake, hence the continuing references to Francis Drake in the Francis Drake (IOM) Bursary Fund. This sponsors young people from the Isle of Man and reserves places on an annual basis, usually during August.

This year the voyage will leave Holyhead and return to Holyhead; where it sails will be dependent on the skipper and the weather conditions.

What is the involvement of Onchan District Commissioners?

The Commissioners have long wished to encourage the young people of Onchan to take part in character building experiences.

By law, however, Local Authorities are not allowed to use ratepayers’ money, for such purposes so the Onchan Youth Development Fund is money raised by donations from the public and was originally set up solely for sponsoring an Onchan youth on the Francis Drake. It is however also available to help with other character building experiences, and different applications have been received and approved by the Commissioners in the past.

What qualifications does the candidate require to sail on the Greater Manchester Challenge?

• Be between the ages of 14 and 24
• Be a resident of Onchan
• Be able to swim 50 yards in light clothing (certificates to be shown).
• Be free between 13th – 19th August 2005 (the dates of the trip).
• Be prepared to contribute £100 towards the cost.

How will the applicant get to the vessel for sailing?

The Francis Drake Bursary Fund will take responsibility for the candidate from leaving Douglas, to their return.

The Ocean Youth Trust provides

• Lifejacket
• Waterproof jacket & trousers
• Safety Harnesses
• Food
• Insurance

There is a recommended kit list for the week relating mainly to clothing.

For further information, go to the Ocean Youth Trust (NW) website at www.oytnw.org.uk

What do you do next?

Telephone Susanne at Onchan Commissioners 675564 and ask for an application form. Susanne will be able to answer any queries you may have. Completed applications forms should be returned to the Commissioners’ offices by 5pm on Friday 20th May 2005.