A TEENAGER who battled a brain tumour has taken part in a four-day yacht adventure which he described as ‘inspirational’.

Brandon Holtom, 17, was invited on the trip by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, along with 20 other youngsters in recovery from cancer.

Brandon joined the crew of one of four yachts, taking the helm of the vessel as they sailed around the Solent last week.

Brandon, from Chorley, who finished months of treatment for an aggressive brain tumour a year ago, was joined by three other young people on board their boat, Arcturus.

The teenager, who had treatment at The Christie Hospital in Manchester, said: “It was totally inspirational.

“I was a bit nervous because I didn’t know anyone on the boat and I didn’t know how difficult it would be but you pick it up quite fast.

“There was actually nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and got along really well and I had a great time.”

Onboard 42-48ft cruising yachts, the trip provided a chance for the young people to test themselves in a safe and supportive environment, encouraged to work as a team and involved everything from helming the boat to cooking.

Setting off from East Cowes Marina, Isle of Wight, they navigated the The Solent, to various stopovers including Yarmouth and Newtown for a barbecue and water fight.

Brandon enjoyed a whirlwind speedboat ride around the Isle of Wight Needles before sailing back to Cowes.

Round-the-world yachtswoman Dame Ellen MacArthur joined Brandon and his new pals after the voyage.

She said: “These young people are truly amazing.

“They face experiences that no child should ever have to go through, and yet they do it with the biggest smiles on their faces.

“They are truly inspiring.”