DIGITAL print firm Océ is backing a £100 million Government scheme to buy a ship and educate disadvantaged children across the country.
The Chatham Way firm will support the UK Flagship and Oceans of the Seas project, but helped out by printed the original designs for a great sail training ship a decade ago. This year, it has reinforced its links by providing the printing for the project, backed by Prime Minister David Cameron.
It is anticipated the new ship will cost £80 million to build, with £20 million needed to provide bursaries for young people and its first voyage could be in 2016.
The vessel will serve as the university of the oceans and undertake research into the health of the seas, providing opportunities for flexible and academic programmes for young people from within the UK and abroad.
Bron Curley, managing director of Océ UK, said: "As a world leader that prides itself on client relationships and providing quality service, we are proud to have been able to contribute in a practical way to such a worthwhile project.
"Once it is a reality, it will benefit so many people, particularly the young, from all walks of life, and provide them with an experience they will never forget."
