A TEENAGER is aiming to set sail on a dream career after winning a £17,000 yachting cadetship bursary.

Alex Liddell, from Rawtenstall, will be learning the ropes and pullies after landing one of six places on the course, which teaches how to navigate 3,000 ton superyachts.

The ex-Alder Grange Community and Technology School student said: “It’s an amazing opportunity. It’s a dream come true and it hasn’t really sunk in yet.

“My family began going on watersports holidays, doing kayaking, power boating, jet skiing and dinghy sailing, when I was very young.

“We used to go to Anglesey and then we went across Europe.

“Ever since, I’ve been passionate about boats and all marine-related activities.

“I can’t wait to get started and my career aims are to achieve the level of deck officer, and ultimately become a captain on some of the largest superyachts.”

Youth charity UKSA offered Alex the cadetship, which has a structured three-year apprenticeship and includes a Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science in conjunction with Falmouth Marine School and validated by the University of Plymouth. Training starts in October and allows students the chance to 'earn as they learn' and train Alex’s dad Richard said: “He’s extremely pleased and his mum, Wendy, and I are so happy for him.

“He’s worked really hard for it, but special praise must go out to Rossendale Valley Sailing Club, where Alex is a member.

“They have bent over backwards in assisting him and helping him gain the various sailing qualifications and Duke of Edinburgh awards that prove his desire and intent on pursuing a career in superyachting.”

Once employed as entry level professional deckhands after five months of the course, students can typically earn €2000 a month tax free working in locations across Europe and worldwide.