YOUNGSTERS are to be given a taste of life at sea after taking part in a police project.

Four months ago, 16 young people started a scheme run by Northumbria Police in which they learnt how to restore, repair and crew a small fishing boat.

They also gained technology skills to produce a video diary using digital photography.

Ten of the South Tyneside youngsters will sail in a leg of the Tall Ships Race, from Poole, in Dorset, to Brest, France, in July.

The names of the lucky participants will be announced at a presentation ceremony in South Shields today, when all the youngsters will receive certificates of achievement.

As well as the police, the scheme was supported by sailing charity the Maren Project, South Tyneside Resource for Initiating Development of the Economy and South Tyneside Council.

Community beat manager PC Chris Warriner said: "We wanted to break down barriers between the young people and show how rewarding a challenge could be.

"I was impressed by the attitude and motivation of the team, who showed real dedication to this project.

"They've really enjoyed it and it's prompted a lot of interest from the schools they attend as well as other young people."