When a 15-year-old was asked to take part in one of the biggest sailing competitions in the country he was naturally apprehensive.

Having never sailed in his life, Jack Andrews, of Herron Gate, was asked by the Enfield commander of the police cadets to take part in a five-day tall ship regatta from Falmouth to Greenwich.

It was a tall order, but he was welcomed into the team of eight who would be up against tall ships from countries all over the world.

Jack and the team who travelled from Falmouth, to the Isle of Wight, and then on to Greenwich in a 500-mile trip competing against 49 other ships.

And despite enduring a bit of sea sickness, the Duet team romped home to victory, much to the delight of Jack’s father, Greg.

Mr Andrews said: “It was absolutely miraculous; I have never seen anything like it. To be part of a sailing team for the first time and come out as winners is incredible.

“We were not sure what was in store for him but it was a real proud dad moment.”

Thousands of people gathered on the banks of the Thames to welcome in the ships as part of the festival and the winning side was able to hoist the trophy aloft.

Mr Andrews added: “I cannot describe the emotions. At one point the ship could not be found on the tracking site which sent us into a panic.

“But the organisers assured us everything was fine and that his ship was in the lead. We couldn’t believe it.

“He also met Sophie, Countess of Wessex, which was a huge honour. It was all down to the Enfield Volunteer Police Cadets without who we would not have this amazing memory.”