A local sailing trainer hopes to use his MBE to inspire more young people to take up the activity that has changed his life.

Ocean Youth Trust South chief executive Mark Todd has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire as part of the King’s Birthday Honours List for 2025.

Mark has been chief executive of the Southampton charity since 2010 and was previously staff skipper for nine years.

He received the honour from King Charles for services to sailing and to young people and is also chair of the association of sail training organisations.

“It feels very special to have been awarded an MBE for my work in sail training," he said.

"I am passionate about the power of sail training to make a lasting positive difference to young people. I hope to use this award to bring wider recognition to the industry.

“When I started sailing with the Ocean Youth Trust, I saw at first-hand what sail training can do for young people – improving their wellbeing and helping them reach their true potential.

"That was 25 years ago, and I have enjoyed being part of the sail training community ever since. Sail training has certainly changed my own life."

Todd spent a large portion if his childhood in and out of hospital due to scoliosis, causing him to miss out on a lot of education.

"When I told a teacher that I wanted to go to university they openly laughed in my face – and my parents were very much against me taking up dinghy sailing," he recalled.

"Yet I became a lawyer and then a sail training skipper before taking on my current role. Every day in sail training you meet wonderful young people – many of whom face their own challenges in life.

"I admire how they can embrace opportunity and valiantly try to find their way in an increasingly complex world.

“In my time with OYT South and also lately as chair of ASTO, I have sailed and worked with some remarkably interesting, inspiring and extremely dedicated staff and volunteers.

"I thank everyone who has played a part in my journey so far. I’m incredibly proud of the sail training community.

“Anyone aged 11-25 who might benefit from an adventure at sea, or any adult who wants to volunteer on board or support our work in other ways can find out more about Ocean Youth Trust South via our website."