A GREENOCK youth work charity has won royal recognition with a prestigious national award created in memory of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Ocean Youth Trust Scotland – who are based at East Blackhall Street and have had a berth opposite it in the town - support over 600 young people from across Scotland each year.

They have been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Volunteering Award.

It was established to mark the monarch’s jubilee earlier this year, with just 20 charities recognised.

The trust was selected for its work to improve the lives of young people through its volunteers.

Lucie Aitkenhead, chair of OYTS, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this prestigious award recognising the hard work and dedication of our volunteers.

“They are the backbone of our organisation, without whom we would not be able to deliver our life changing youth work at sea.”

With the help of more than 200 volunteers, Ocean Youth Trust Scotland provide exciting, inspiring, and challenging residential sailing voyages for young people aged 12-25.

On board, they learn all aspects of sailing the boat which requires them to embrace the value of team work, responsibility, resilience and communication.

In turn, their confidence increases and they learn invaluable life and social skills.

Highly skilled sailing volunteers work tirelessly on board the Trust's two 70ft yachts to provide youth work on the waves, engaging with young people from a range of backgrounds.

These include carers, care experienced young people and those at risk of falling into the criminal justice system.

On shore, Ocean Youth Trust Scotland’s committed volunteers help to fundraise.

Hazel Wiseman, general manager of the charity, says the organisation would not exist without its dedicated volunteers.

She said: “They were once again outstanding in supporting us throughout the pandemic.

“Thank-you to everyone for continuing to support us all here at OYT Scotland.”