Stevenson Hails Funding Boost For Banff Sailing Projects

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed the announcement that two sailing related projects in Banff are set to receive funding from the Awards for All scheme run by SportScotland, Creative Scotland and the Big Lottery Fund.

The Banff Community Small Schools Sailing Initiative will receive £7,000 from SportScotland to support young people from local schools to build their own boats. The grant for £7,000 will contribute towards the costs of boat builder & adult supervision, venue hire, consumables, buoyancy bangs & metal fittings, sailing instructor from SRYA, and transport.

Meanwhile, Brighter Horizons is to receive £9,400 from the Big Lottery Fund to fund a group of 10 to 12 young people from disadvantaged back grounds to sail to Norway, Sweden and Denmark before taking part in the Lerwick Tall Ships event on their return to Scotland. This grant of £9,440 will fund sessional staff, fuel costs, canal and marina fees, subsistence costs, transport, group activities, equipment and navigation supplies.

Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:

“Banffshire & Buchan Coast has a long and proud maritime heritage which continues right up to today, so these funding announcements for sailing projects in Banff is fantastic news.

“Giving school pupils the chance to build a boat will teach them important skills as well as encouraging teamwork and an interest in sailing that could last a lifetime.

“Meanwhile the funding for Brighter Horizons to take children who would probably never otherwise get the chance on a sailing trip to Scandinavia and to take part in the Tall Ships event is an incredible opportunity which I am sure will stay with those participating for the rest of their lives.

“I am delighted that these funds have been awarded and hope it will help ensure an interest in sailing passes on to a new generation of children in Banff.”