Barrow charity starts fundraiser for visually impaired teen

Reece Laing, 18, has been offered the opportunity to join the crew of the TS Pelican, a Tall Ship coming into Barrow for the Festival of the Seas in August.

Having started as a volunteer youth leader as part of Vision Support Barrow and District's (VSBD) Younger Generations group, Reece is hoping that conquering the sea can serve as inspiration for other people with sight loss.

The six-day long voyage is designed to help Reece develop vital practical and leadership skills which will help him work more effectively as a youth leader.

The Pelican of London welcoming passengers on board in 2023 (Image: Appollon Security Services) (Image: Appollon Security Services))

Caleb Staples, an Engagement Officer at VSBD, is spearheading the fundraising campaign to make Reece's dreams a reality.

Caleb said: "This is an exciting opportunity for him as he's never had the chance to do anything like this before.

"Being part of the crew of the TS Pelican will be challenging at the best of times as she will be traveling under sail as much as possible."

The prospect of spending nearly a week on a ship could be a daunting one with Reece's visual impairment.

"As well as being a new venture for Reece, he will also have to contend with the additional challenges that come with being Severely Sight Impaired (SSI)," said Caleb.

"Despite this, Reece is sure that these challenges will help him grow and develop to become a better role model to the young people he works with."

So far, the organisers of the trip have managed to raise £420 towards the overall costs, meaning Reece will need to raise an additional £400 to cover the remaining amount, as well as travel costs.

Caleb added: "As a charity, we are covering the costs for Reece to go on this voyage.

"However as a charity we would greatly appreciate any donations to help Reece take up this amazing opportunity."

You can make a donation to the fundraiser by visiting the page here.