Having completed her recent transatlantic crossing/delivery trip from Sydney to Europe, Ellen MacArthur is already planning her next challenge. By mid-August B&Q will have arrived at her French base in Lorient, north-west France, to undergo further sea trials before a possible attempt on the Round Britain and Ireland record.

In September, the 75ft trimaran will be back in Lorient for a refit prior to a round the world record attempt. She will go on Standby Mode Red from early November. MacArthur said: “The long-term goal of this project has always been to go solo around the world and following the half circumnavigation back from Australia, and our solo attempt across the Atlantic, we are now ready to take on this huge challenge.”