A teenage Oakham sailor has been shortlisted for a national award promoting the power of sailing in positively impacting young people's lives.

Sixteen-year-old Ben Tylecote, a member of Rutland Sailing Club, is one of just three finalists in the running for the 2020 Panerai Challenger Trophy.

Last October the talented young racer led the team that won the Royal Yachting Association Eric Twiname National Team Racing Championships.

The triumph marked the latest success in a four-year period which saw his world turned upside down.

For, at just 12 years old, Ben was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, an aggressive cancer in the muscle behind the eye.

Gruelling treatment and surgeries followed, including Ben having his right eye removed.

Ben returned to competition at the 2018 RS Games, just months after finishing treatment.

Despite exhaustion, he continued building up his strength, sailing every weekend, helping coach the juniors and competing when he could.

Peter Ashworth, from Rutland Sailing Club, said: "Sailing gave Ben an escape, independence and a social life during these traumatic years.

"It also gave him the opportunity to think about something else.

"For one week in every three Ben had some respite from treatment that allowed some normality and this centred wholly around sailing at Rutland.

"As a skilled sailor he could compete well despite not being at full strength and fitness, giving him a crucial boost of confidence and positivity.

"When he wasn't feeling so good he drove the RIB.

"Being on the water meant he was outside and less susceptible to bugs, important as his immunity was low from the chemo.

"We're in awe of the great courage and determination Ben has shown over the last few years.

"His enthusiasm and passion for this sport is evident in the huge energy, commitment and sense of fun he brings to every training session, race or event.

"He's an inspiration to the adults and juniors alike and deserves every success in the future."

Ben's mum Fiona added: "Sailing has given Ben independence, competition, friendship, confidence and support.

"It's an amazing sport.

"The truth is, without sailing and the support of the sailing community, I don't think we'd have got through the last few years as well as we have."

Now in its third year, the Panerai Challenger Trophy recognises outstanding individuals who have embraced the power of sailing or windsurfing to achieve a personal triumph.

It also recognises and rewards the OnBoard clubs or centres which make this possible.

As a finalist Ben receives £2,500 to further his enjoyment and participation in sailing, with Rutland Sailing Club scooping £5,000 to further the OnBoard aims and work of the club.

On Friday 30 October, the Panerai Challenge Trophy winner will be announced and awarded £5,000 for their own sailing and £10,000 for their club.