An Olympian has become the new patron of a Dorset charity that helps youngsters and disadvantaged people get into water sports.

Emma Wilson, who won a bronze medal in the windsurfing events at Tokyo 2021, marked her appointment as patron of the Chesil Sailing Trust by inspiring school students.

She invited pupils from Bincombe Valley and Conifers Primary schools in Weymouth to the Official Test Centre at Osprey Quay on Portland to have a go at windsurfing.

The Chesil Sailing Trust helps young, disadvantaged or disabled people to start or participate in sailing or windsurfing.

Team GB athlete Emma, who grew up in Christchurch and is based on Portland, will compete in her second Olympic games at the Paris 2024 windsurfing events in Marseille this summer.

Her dedication to inspiring others was praised by the Trust's chairman.

Frances Guppy said: “Emma is an excellent role model, which she shows with her enthusiasm and how natural and in touch she is with the children.

“A lot of young people have benefited from her being part of the Trust, so they can access opportunities which might be beyond them otherwise.

“It is also very important for the community to have somebody like her, and her role is driving young people to have fun and do their best - which has been wonderful.

“All pupils have developed their self-belief and confidence, as she tells them to put a smile on their faces and do their best so they can overcome self doubts and enjoy their new experiences.”

READ: 'Emma Wilson selected to represented Team GB at Olympics'

The Chesil Sailing Trust has made it possible for thousands of school children to experience water pursuits.

Emma's work with young people forms part of the plan to create more opportunities for young people to get into water sports.

A series of 12-week wellbeing programmes set up by the trust include six sessions at the Official Test Centre for Windsurfing and another six at the Andrew Simpson Centre sailing school, also on Portland.

Emma will continue her work as the patron of the Trust once she returns from competing in the Olympics.

Her trail-blazing mother Penny Wilson was among the first female windsurfers and passed her expertise onto her daughter.

The Trust is currently hoping to expand its contributions to sports for school children by collaborating with windsurfing group Team 15, hosted by the Royal Yachting Association.

The charity relies entirely on donations and grants to fund opportunities like these, which anybody can donate to via its JustGiving page.

Fore more information see the website https://www.chesilsailingtrust.org.uk/