A TRUST founded in memory of an avid sailor is looking for youth groups keen to experience the sport.

The Neil Murphy Sailing Trust was established nearly a year ago by Maddie King in memory of her partner, Neil Murphy, who died in a motorbike accident in September, 2011.

The 39-year-old, from Lostock, was fatally injured when he was involved in a crash with a car and came off his bike on the M61 southbound between Kearsley and the East Lancashire Road.

Ms King launched the trust to share her partner’s love of sailing in the Lake District.

The trust provides funding for youths up to the age of 21 who have never been sailing, and helps them to gain their first level qualifications.

Funding will be given to groups who might be described as disadvantaged, discriminated against or vulnerable, including youth offenders. Equipment will be provided.

Ms King said: “Neil was an active, kind and loving man. He loved life and would always help out people whenever he could.

“Neil loved the outdoors and was both a director of Glenridding Sailing Centre and a qualified sailing instructor. He donated his time to both of these activities because of his love for sailing and his desire to share this passion with as many people as possible.

“He loved the combination of the technical elements and being outdoors that sailing gives.”

Mr Murphy, a former teacher, who worked as an IT analyst at The Co-operative Insurance Service in Manchester, discovered sailing with Ms King and the couple grew to love to sport.

The trust is registered with HM Revenue and Customs as a charity.

People interested in obtaining funding, or anyone who would like to donate funds or supplies to the trust, can visit neilmurphysailingtrust.org.uk.