September 11 2002

DARING Vale of Leven Academy pupils braved seasickness and cabin fever to sail in a tall ship.

Eight pupils crewed the Prince William on a ten day voyage across the North Sea.

They travelled from Aberdeen to Amsterdam and then across the English Channel to Portsmouth.

The ship left Aberdeen on August 8 and the pupils had to face rough seas, night watches and climbs to the crow’s nest.

Kathyrn Spence, 17, said that the journey was “wonderful but exhausting”.

She added: “I was lucky. I was only seasick for one day.

Others were ill for several days. Nevertheless, it was a fantastic experience for all concerned.”

The trip was the third time Vale pupils have crewed a tall ship.

The pupils were sponsored by the Tullochan Trust, the Sail Training Association and the Vale of Leven Academy PTA. They also raised funds themselves.

Terry Lanagan, head teacher at Vale of Leven Academy, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for young people to take on a really serious physical and mental challenge and to test their own determination.

“It also helps to develop teamwork and leadership skills.

“I am grateful to the Tullochan Trust and the Sail Training Association for their continued support.”