SKIPPER Andrew Hindley has spoken of his delight at coming third in the gruelling round-the-world BT Global Challenge.

Andy, whose parents live in Hollins Lane, Accrington, arrived back in Southampton after the 30,000 mile race on Wednesday. Crowds of people lined the quayside and everyone erupted into a chorus of Happy Birthday when their yacht docked in honour of Andy's 30th birthday.

But Andy said the grand reception really only hit him afterwards.

He and the Save the Children crew were locked in a fight right to the end against the Commercial Union boat and did not relax until they had pipped them to the post with just minutes between them. They came in fourth on the last leg, making them third overall.

Andy said: "It was totally fraught right to the finish as we obviously wanted to beat them in the last little bit.

"We didn't appreciate how many people were cheering us, the helicopters overhead or the television cameras until we had actually crossed the finish. It hit us afterwards just what a phenomenal welcome we had." He added: "It's always quite strange coming back home when you finish a race. I have done round-the-world trips before, but when you spend this long on a boat with people you always miss them.

"We've swapped phone numbers and plan to keep in touch. We were all very happy at coming in third."

Andy and his family were spending a few days celebrating in Southampton and then he was planning to jet off to Mexico for a holiday. He also plans to spend time back at home in Accrington.

He added: "After that I will be working in Southampton for a month and just be keeping my eyes open to see what arrives.

"I hope to sail around the world again and take part in a catamaran race in the year 2000."

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