About Us

The Sea is a cruel mistress but an excellent builder of character. there has never been a better platform from which to develop self confidence, team spirit and leadership qualities. The lessons learned by "those who go to sea in ships" stay with them for the rest of their lives.

These sentiments would be echoed by virtually every sailor and were much in the mind of the Officers and Crew of the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service when it was disbanded because of defense cuts in 1994. Some had been on active duty in the main branches of the services and felt that their years of experience could be put to some use in the local community.

Thus the Pride of Bristol Trust was formed

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With the help of the National Lottery, National Westminster Bank and other local companies, funds were raised and an ideal ex-RN Training Vessel was purchased. Many members has served in similar vessels and were therefore experienced in all aspects of taking her to sea.

The organisation increased in size with new members from the Royal Navy, Royal Navy Reserves and Merchant Navy plus local Yacht masters and Instructors adding their skills.

In 1997 the Trust started to take Trainees to sea. they were divided into watch groups and worked alongside the volunteer crew members. Groups from such organisations as the Prince of Wales Trust, St Johns Cadets and Scouts spent weekends or weeks learning all of the basic skills of seamanship, coastal pilotage, ship handling, helmsmanship and safety at sea, plus the more important skills of cooperation with others and pride in personal achievement.

In a few days the change was remarkable and by the time they returned home, to quote one parent "They did not seem to be the same person". Many have returned to help with ship maintenance or to help raise funds to send others to sea.

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