A charity helping young people rebuild their lives after cancer has been named as the official charity for a major Isle of Wight sailing event.
The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust will be at the heart of the 2026 Cowes Week regatta for the event’s 200th anniversary.
Founded in 2003 by Dame Ellen MacArthur, the charity supports young people aged eight to 24, using sailing and outdoor adventure to inspire young people living through and beyond cancer to believe in a brighter future.
Frank Fletcher, chief executive of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, said: "It's a wonderful thing to be Cowes Week's official charity for 2026, especially as it celebrates its 200th year, and it will make a huge difference.
"Young people need somewhere to turn after a traumatic diagnosis, somewhere they feel they belong, and where they are reminded of what they can still achieve.
"At the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, sailing and the outdoors give young people the freedom and sense of possibility they are looking for.
"They start to believe in themselves again and look forward to what's next in life.
"Everyone who enjoys Cowes Week understands the power and potential sailing has, and with their support, more young people living through and beyond cancer will feel inspired to believe in a brighter future."
The trust operates from bases in East Cowes, as well as Largs in Scotland.
Since its launch, the charity has supported almost 4,000 young people, beginning with a voyage for five young people from Great Ormond Street Hospital.
During the 2026 regatta, the trust will be featured in the Parade Regatta Village, offering visitors a chance to learn about its work and take part in family activities.
One of the trust’s yachts will be moored at Trinity Landing and open for guided tours throughout the week.
Bob Trimble, chairman of Cowes Week Ltd, said: "We are honoured to partner with the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust for our bicentenary year.
"Cowes Week has always been about community, inspiration, and the joy of being on the water – values that the Trust embodies so powerfully.
"Their work changes young lives."
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