Emma Richards, the 29-year-old British yachtswoman, is to receive an MBE. Emma is included in the New Years Honours list in recognition of her epic exploits in Around Alone earlier this year when she became the first British woman and youngest ever person to complete the 29,000-mile, solo round the world race.

Richards’ MBE is also in acknowledgement for the work she has done in her role as an Ambassador for the HSBC Education Trust. The HSBC Education Trust aims to raise standards in education by providing students with inspirational experiences beyond the classroom, and Emma has committed a large amount of time during and after Around Alone to supporting the Trust’s hard work.

Richards is currently in New Zealand writing her account of her exploits in Around Alone for her book which will be published in October 2004.

Richards commented: “I’m absolutely thrilled and humbled to receive an MBE. I’d like to thank my sponsor, Pindar, my family and the tremendous support that I received from all around the world during my solo circumnavigation; I couldn’t have completed my 132 days at sea without everyone’s continual support, so to be given this great honour is as much for them as it is for me. I also think that this is good for sailing as a sport, which does not often receive the recognition of mainstream sports such as rugby or football.”

Dame Mary Richardson, Chief Executive of the HSBC Education Trust, commented: “I am so pleased for Emma. Her work for the Trust, particularly the summer sailing schools, continues to be invaluable and she thoroughly deserves the accolade bestowed upon her.” Andrew Pindar, Chairman of the Pindar Group Commented: “We are now in our fifth year of sponsorship with Emma and we could not be more proud to be associated with her and her achievements. Emma has courage, talent and determination in equal measure and I am so pleased that her accomplishments have been recognised in this way.”