THE Ellen MacArthur Sailing Trust has doubled the number of children on its summer residential trip thanks to car manufacturer Rolls-Royce.

The trust, which takes young people in recovery from cancer and leukaemia on sailing trips, was named as Rolls-Royce's official charity of the year.

Its support has allowed the trust to double the number of youngsters on its two- week trip to Bradwell Outdoors Centre in Essex from 20 to 40.

Trust patron Dame Ellen MacArthur, pictured, said: "I didn't think we could beat the fun we had last year but we have managed it.

"I would like to say a huge thanks to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd for naming us as their official charity for 2008.

"It's great that they came to Bradwell to see what a difference these trips make to the kids."