A YOUNG man has celebrated winning his battle with cancer by sailing off into the wild blue yonder.

Ryan Campbell was struck down with deadly osteosarcoma – cancer of the bone – three years ago.

Following a series of gruelling treatments he is now in remission and took part in an inspirational journey with the Ellen MacArthur Trust.

Ryan, 20, from Wemyss Bay, joined the crew of one of the Trust’s yachts — along with another 14 young cancer survivors — for a five-day adventure on the Firth of Clyde.

He said: “It can be a bit distressing spending time with people who have been in a similar situation but at the time it’s more inspiring.

“It’s a life-changing experience. It can really help rebuild your confidence after everything you’ve been through. To anyone who was thinking about going on this trip I would say definitely give it a go.” Ryan finished his treatment at Inverclyde Royal in December 2012 and this is the second time he has sailed with the Trust. He said: “It has been great to return, see people from the last trip and learn more advanced sailing skills.” The Trust offers a chance for the young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment, encouraging them to work as a team and get involved in everything from helming the boat to cooking.

During the trips, the Trust fleet navigates the waters of the Clyde, making various stopovers including Port Bannatyne on the Isle of Bute, the National Sailing Centre at Great Cumbrae and back to Largs, giving the young people the opportunity to test their new skills on the water.

Launched in 2003, the aim of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is to give young people in recovery from cancer the chance to rebuild their confidence through sailing.

For more information about the Trust or to make a donation visit www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org