Sir Ben Ainslie and Geoff Holt

There were happy faces all round as Sir Ben Ainslie named the latest Wetwheels boat at Gunwharf Quays.

Watched on by disabled students, sponsors and local businesses, Sir Ben said;  ‘It is a real honour to be asked by Geoff to come along, I’m a huge fan of his and everything his team does to help get youngsters out on the water. ‘These boats are absolutely fantastic. ‘It’s an honour to name this vessel Wetwheels Solent, and may God bless her and all who sail on her.’
Wetwheels Solent is the latest in the Wetwheels fleet bringing the number to four in the UK with a fifth being launched in Whitby in August by Princess Anne.
Wetwheels boats are custom-built, fully-accessible powerboats designed to take people with any disability, including wheelchair users on sea-going adventures. Collectively they take in excess of 3,000 people a year to sea and everyone has the opportunity to drive.
Founder of Wetwheels, Geoff Holt MBE said it was a proud day for him and his team; “When I started Wetwheels six years ago, I would never imagined Sir Ben would be naming my fourth boat. We have clearly identified a need with our Portsmouth boat so busy, we even have a waiting list. It proves that being on the water can help to enrich peoples lives.
Rose Road Association, one of the groups who use Wetwheels say; “Wetwheels provides inspirational experiences on boats and on the water for many of the young people with complex disabilities we work with.  The trips it provides give young people a thrilling time and they learn new skills which help them gain confidence.”
 

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