The Isle of Sheppey Sailing Club could become the first in the country to be the permanent base of a specialised boat to help disabled people – but they need your help.

Even Keel, which is a charity, has visited the Island twice over the past two years to give people the chance to try out sailing with its Artemis20 boat.

It is specially designed to enable disabled people to sail easily.

After receiving so much positive feedback, they are now aiming to raise enough money to get a boat for the club.

Even Keel wants to make sailing available to everyone, whatever their age or ability and as well as getting people out on the boat, they also want to raise the profile of the club and get more people involved in the sport.

The fundraising drive was launched at the club in Marine Parade, Sheerness.

It will cost £15,000 to buy the boat. Running costs are £12,000 a year.

The charity is aiming to run the project for three years but it is hoped it will continue.

Southern Water is a sponsor and has already pledged £10,000 to kick-start the bid.

MP Gordon Henderson presented a cheque for £1,000 to Even Keel on behalf of Swale businessman Dennis Paulley.

Swale council’s sports development manager James Thatcher has managed to secure a £5,000 donation from the council and £3,000 from Sportivate, which is part of Sport England.

He spoke at the launch of what a fantastic project it is and said the council is so keen on securing it for Swale to help encourage healthier lifestyles.

Club commodore Tim Harris said: “This will raise the profile of the club and we hope it will encourage kids to become involved in sailing.

“We need new blood in the club to grow membership and we believe sailing should be for everyone.”

The club is hoping businesses, councillors and trusts will come forward with donations as they believe it will benefit the whole Island.

• To pledge money, contact James Thatcher on 01795 417109 or email jamesthatcher@swale.gov.uk

Founder of the Even Keel project David Rutter explained at the launch that once the money has been secured for the boat, their input doesn’t end there.

A team from the charity will be on hand to help with coaching and training as well as actively going out and about to promote the club and encourage people to use its facilities.

It is aimed at getting anyone, whatever their age or ability, out on to the water and show that everyone can enjoy the sport.

Running costs will go towards things like paying for instructors, insurance, repairs and a hoist to help people into the boat.

The Artemis20 has been designed as a high performance racing boat and Even Keel will also pay any competition entrance fees.