Sailors from across Scotland received top honours on Saturday at the Glasgow Science Centre as RYA Scotland recognised the achievements of those working in the sport. And two Helensburgh sailors were honoured.

Helensburgh Sailing Club’s Calum Bell, 14, clinched the RYA Scotland Class Academy Sailor of the Year award.

The 14-year-old He stepped up to the podium and gave thanks to many of his supporters, coaches, sponsors and parents of course his mum and dad.

He saidcommented afterwards: “My results were good this year and I made it into the UK national Junior squads. This and this award is important because it gives young sailors great confidence going forward, especially with such tough competition.

In looking to the season ahead he noted, “The nationals are in Scotland this year, which will be great to compete nearer to home. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Lorenzo Chiavarini was awarded the RYA Scotland Performance of the Year award, retaining it after also winning in 2015, for a superb ISAF World Cup event win in Quindao.

Lorenzo’s acceptance video this year was shot aton the snowy banks of Loch Lomond while en route to the warmer climes of Miami, where he is currently competing with the GB Sailing Team.

In his speech Lorenzo said: “2015 was a fantastic year, winning my first World Cup in China was a real highlight. I can’t wait for this year to bring new events and new memories. I’d like to thank my parents for sticking with me and dedicating all their lives towards my sailing.”

Sheina Chiavarini collected the award on Lorenzo’s behalf and said: “As parents, it goes with the territory to do your best, try to make miracles happen for kids, but RYAS, together with their partners and all the volunteers have done so much to make his dreams come true. The inspiration which brought the first sparkle to his eye, the encouragement to begin to hope and dream, incredible training calendar, coaching on some of the best sailing ground in the world and a voice of advice to share matters when they did not go according to plan.

“Thank you for a great evening to celebrate the success of the programmes rather than the achievements of individuals.”