A GROUP of friends are getting their paddles out to travel the length of the Pembrokeshire coastline and raise money for The Prince's Trust.

The group of individuals, Sarah Kitson, Tom Robertson, Melanie Skelton, Kathryn Treherne and Richard Edmundsall, who are all involved with helping young people, decided back in October to embark on an adventure to celebrate Pembrokeshire and raise funds for a worthwhile cause at the same time.

"The idea is to travel the length of the Pembrokeshire coastline in sea kayaks and raise money for The Prince's Trust, but it's never as simple as that," explained one of the fund-raisers, Sarah Kitson.

"Out of our group, only two have substantial experience paddling, one is afraid of jelly fish, another has a serious penchant for pink, and one who, despite the best efforts of the team, cannot stay out of the water.

"However, we all share a passion for the Pembrokeshire coast, being outdoors on the water and we all feel the cause is important," she said.

Training has now begun in earnest and together with the support and guidance of Pembrokeshire Activity Centre, the group are hoping to make an environmentally sustainable expedition around the coast over six days setting off on Monday, April 25, from Wiseman's Bridge.

The Prince's Trust gives practical and financial support to young people, developing key workplace skills such as confidence and motivation. The organisation works within local schools and communities, with youth groups and other agencies to enhance environmental schemes and community projects, enhancing the life chances of many young people and improving their prospects.

The Trust has helped more than 600,000 young people since 1976 and continues to support 100 more each working day.

Over 75 per cent of young people involved with projects last year have progressed into work, education or training.

"The Prince's Trust is a youth charity that helps change young lives, and it has touched the life of one of the paddlers in the group," continued Sarah.

"We are looking for whatever support people are able to offer, whether that may be a cash donation directly to the charity through our fund-raising web page; promoting or attending one of our planned events, or donating equipment for the paddle itself; all support would be greatly appreciated," she added.

For more information or to offer support or sponsorship to the group, you can view their webpage http://www.justgiving.com/PaddlePembs">www.justgiving.com/PaddlePembs