FOUR Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Maldon went to Pin Mill on the River Orwell to see the restored Thames barge 'Cambria' - and find out more about a project to give young carers the chance to enjoy sailing holidays.

The 'Cambria' has been lovingly restored at a cost of £1.6 million. It is the only barge in operation on the East coast which does not have an engine so relies on the wind in its sails for power and manoeuvrability.

A spokesperson for Maldon Rotary Clun said: "The money has been well spent since the 'Cambria' will be used to provide young carers with opportunities to spend fully supervised sessions on board. Rotary has links with the Young Carers charity.

"The Maldon Rotarians joined Rotarians from other clubs to be given an outline of how this will work. There are few opportunities for young carers to receive any respite from their duties, which are often imposed by necessity, so this will be a welcome chance for them to enjoy the company of others and the thrill of life at sea."

The boat will operate from bases on rivers such as the Blackwater to take up to eight young carers aged between 12 and 16 -together with supervising adults - on trips. The trips will last for a weekend or a full week. The young carers will assist the sailing and operation of the barge under the

necessary permissions to be able to start operating next spring, when it is hoped that Rotary Clubs will be able to liaise with local Young Carers groups to locate and sponsor youngsters for the trips.