A GROUP of residents from Worcester's YMCA have set sail on a trip of a lifetime.

The five from the centre in Henwick Road, St John's, have been selected to go on a sailing voyage as a reward for the progress they have made or for general good behaviour.

The party will leave Ipswich on an Edwardian Cruiser/Racer and sail south around the Thames and, weather permitting, return on Friday.

Everyone is expected to help in the running and maintenance of the boat, including cooking, cleaning, putting up the sails and doing night watches. Two YMCA staff members are with them and a skipper and mate will provide the expertise in sailing.

The experience is aimed at building self-confidence, self-esteem, a sense of responsibility, trust in others, motivation, self-discipline, communication skills, self-awareness and organisational skills.

"I was very excited when I heard I had got a place on the trip," said Ben Fox.

"It will help me gain new skills. I think it will be a really positive thing for me to do."

Mel Smith, project co-ordinator at the YMCA, said the trip has been made possible by The Cirdan Sailing Trust, which run the expedition for disadvantaged young people.