A FORMER Naval officer from Cheddar will be taking to the sea once again to help raise money for a children’s charity.

Steve Pointon, aged 49, attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer during his 24 years of service, which took him to Iraq and Afghanistan, and he remains a reservist.

However, civil servant Steve will be taking on a challenge of an entirely different sort next year when he embarks upon a gruelling 12-week mission to sail his boat, Tikka, around the UK for Action For Children.

He will be joined by friends, relatives and colleagues at various stages, including his wife Kaz and adopted son Harry.

Steve said: “We adopted Harry when he was six. He had a difficult start in life and we’re delighted to have been able to offer him a loving and caring home that he needs.

“We would like to see all children in our country have a better chance in life, which is why we chose Action For Children.

“It’s a national charity that is passionate about helping vulnerable children and young people and we hope to raise a lot of money and awareness of the great work they do.”

Steve has been sailing with Kaz for about 20 years and has the experience to tackle a voyage rated as ‘beautiful but very challenging’.

He said: “There are numerous challenges; changing crews, teaching novices along the way, being away from family, particularly Kaz and Harry.

“To complete this adventure in 11-12 weeks will be difficult and with a boat the size or ours, we will be at the mercy of tides and weather.

“However, the response so far has been amazing and overwhelming with armed forces providing all manner of help and support.

“I currently have about 60 people wanting to sail with me and two groups planning to either walk or cycle around the UK while we sail. Interest is growing all the time; it’s all very exciting and a little scary too.”

To donate towards Steve’s fundraising efforts, log on to uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search for ‘Steve Pointon’.