08/02/2005

Record-breaker MacArthur to be made a Dame

The Queen has confirmed that top yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur will be made a Dame, following her record-breaking solo sailing trip around the world.

A statement issued this morning from the Palace said: "The Queen has been pleased to approve that Ellen Patricia MacArthur MBE be appointed a Dame Commander of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire on the occasion of her record-breaking solo circumnavigation."

Adding to the tributes, Prime Minister Tony Blair also said that the "whole country was proud of her".

Tributes have been flooding in today for Ellen as she tried to snatch a few hours sleep after the gruelling round-the-world trip since crossing the finish line last night.

After crossing the finish line at Ushant at 22:29 GMT last night, setting a new record for the round-the-world trip of 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes and 33 seconds, Ellen caught up on some much needed sleep.

She completed the trip 1 day 8 hours and 35 minutes faster than the previous record holder, Francis Joyon, who completed the journey in 72 days, 22 hours and 54 minutes in February last year.

Ellen's trimaran, B&Q, which has sailed almost 27,400 miles through the water at an average speed of just under 16 knots was escorted back to Falmouth last night under the watchful eye of the Royal Navy's HMS Severn.

She will now have to cope with the massive welcome home reception organised for her return to Falmouth, after 72 days alone at sea, and the prospect of being known as Dame Ellen.

(KMcA/SP)

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