A former helicopter pilot from The Lizard will be swapping the air for the sea when he attempts to sail a Tall Ship from London to France for charity.

Veteran David Issitt, from The Lizard, will be taking on the Tall Ship voyage in partnership with Jubilee Sailing Trust, to raise money for armed forces charity SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association).

Alongside a crew of 32 sailing novices, he will be travelling from London to the historic French port of Caen, covering 350 miles, whilst manning the tall ship The Lord Nelson.

David is no stranger to life on the water, however, having served in the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm for 33 years, working as an air engineer officer and helicopter pilot.

He retired from the Royal Navy in January 2006 and set up home in The Lizard after serving several times at RNAS Culdrose.

He now volunteers for SSAFA as a caseworker in Cornwall.

David said: “I have seen first-hand the life-changing, positive help that SSAFA can give to those in need within the armed forces community.

"Throughout my career I was fortunate enough to find all the support I needed, and my transition into civilian life went smoothly.

"However, not all are so lucky, and it is good to be able to give something back and to help those who need it most.”

David has a fundraising target of £2,500. To support him visit ssafa.charitycheckout.co.uk/pf/david-issittsailingforssafa.

SSAFA provides support to anyone who is currently serving or has ever served in the forces - both regulars and reserves - together with their families.