A WIRRAL schoolboy, inspired by a message from British adventurer and television presenter Bear Grylls, set off in his dinghy for a solo sail around Hilbre Island in aid of the RNLI. 

Theo, six, from West Kirby, set off from the WK Sailing Club slipway to sail solo to Hilbre Island in his optimist dinghy on Tuesday (May 28).

After two hours, he reached his destination and sailed around the island before returning to dry land.

Wirral Globe: Theo, six, from West Kirby prepares to set off from the WK Sailing Club slipway to sail solo to Hilbre Island in his optimist dinghy on Tuesday, May 28Theo, six, from West Kirby prepares to set off from the WK Sailing Club slipway to sail solo to Hilbre Island in his optimist dinghy on Tuesday, May 28 (Image: Supplied by Theo's family)Theo wanted to raise £200 for West Kirby, Hoylake and Abersoch Lifeboat stations to celebrate the RNLI 200 challenge but has now raised £1655 and wants to thank all his supporters for their generosity.

Wirral Globe: Theo, six, after setting off from the West Kirby Sailing Club slipway to sail solo to Hilbre Island in his optimist dinghy on Tuesday, May 28Theo, six, after setting off from the West Kirby Sailing Club slipway to sail solo to Hilbre Island in his optimist dinghy on Tuesday, May 28 (Image: Theo's family)Praising Theo's fundraising efforts, grandad Phil, told the Globe: "At just six years old, he is probably the youngest to attempt a solo sailing adventure around Hilbre Island.

"He only started sailing a few months ago, West Kirby sailing Club juniors provided training in their optimist dinghies and Theo enjoyed practicing on the Marine Lake."

Phil continued: "When it got a bit challenging out on the water, Theo remembered the words Bear Grylls sent him in a birthday message: 'follow your dreams and never give up'. Theo would like to say a huge 'Thank You' to all his supporters".

Asked if Theo had plans for more fundraising events in a dinghy, Phil said: "There are no immediate plans, but as his dad Matt volunteers at West Kirby lifeboat, there is a clear interest in ongoing support for the RNLI and his love of sailing continues to grow".

Theo is from a dinghy-sailing family. Great Great Grandad Thomas Dodd was cox at Hoylake Lifeboat, Theo's uncle is a mariner and dad Matt has been on crew at Abersoch where Theo was born, as well as West Kirby.

Phil said: "It looks like the sea is in Theo's blood".

Theo's fundraising for the RNLI continues. To support him, click here: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/TheosRNLI200challenge?utm_term=AyEynYRDa