Round-the-world solo skipper Alex Thomson was the guest of honour at Alderney Sailing Club’s annual Laying-Up Supper.
 
Despite it only being a fleeting trip last weekend, the 39-year-old skipper also found the time to meet with the club’s junior members the following morning – inspiring a future generation before heading home.
 
At both events the talented yachtsman, sponsored by Hugo Boss, shared his exciting experiences. Having begun by sailing dinghies when he was just 15-years-old, progressed to become the youngest sailor ever to win a round-the-world race and most recently cemented his reputation with a third place finish in the 2012/13 Vendee Globe, there were plenty of adventures to recount.
 
Neil Harvey, Commodore of the Alderney Sailing Club, said: “Alex is one of the most exciting and talented yachtsmen of his generation and we were extremely proud to welcome him to Alderney. Everyone was inspired by his visit especially our younger members who were excited to meet someone who’s broken three world records!”
 
Talking about his visit, Alex said: “Alderney is a beautiful island with lots of fantastic opportunities from dinghy sailing to blue water cruising. The fact that the sailing club has over 700 members, many of whom are overseas, is testament to this and I’m sure that living in such a great setting will inspire some of the junior club members to become the sailing stars of the future.”
 
The Alderney Sailing Clubhouse is open 6pm to 8pm Thursday to Sunday during the winter and welcomes visiting yachtsmen. For more information visit www.alderneysailingclub.com

Pictures: Alex Thomson with young sailors at Alderney Sailing Club; and with Commodore Neil Harvey