Sailor appeals for companions for final leg of journey home

When Leslie Irvine returned to the isles after competing in the gruelling Shetland Round Britain and Ireland Race, he was too tired to take his racing yacht Streamline to her usual berth in Lerwick.

But you can perhaps excuse the intrepid fan of boats from stopping at Scalloway instead. He had, after all, circumnavigated the British isles twice in quick succession – not only did he take part in the SIC-sponsored challenge, he also sailed down to the starting line in Plymouth from the isles and home again after crossing the finish line.

However he is now preparing to complete the final leg of his journey by sailing round the Shetland coastline to berth at Lerwick, and is looking for budding sailing enthusiasts willing to help him complete the journey.

Mr Irvine, who took part in the 1,800-mile event for leukaemia and lymphoma research, has decided to auction up to three berths on his trusty 32ft vessel for the final leg to help reach his £10,000 target.

In return, he says, they will get a taste of sailing the racing yacht and take in the sights of Shetland’s northern coastline, going round Foula and rounding Muckle Flugga and heading out by Skerries on the way.

“I got back on Saturday. I left the yacht at Scalloway, because I live in the area and I just had to get home,” said Mr Irvine.

“The 48-hour stop-over here was horrendous. I never got any sleep at all, and I was totally shattered.

“I just thought somebody might be interested to try this out. There might be someone prepared to give it a go and learn a bit more about sailing. I’d like to get three of the highest bids from people willing to put money in.”

No date has yet been decided for the journey, but anyone interested should contact Mr Irvine on (01595) 692645, or log onto info@vandaloceanracing.com for further information.