A 15-year-old has today (Thursday) become the youngest person to sail solo around Britain, raising more than £7,000 for Cowes based Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust through his fundraising page.

Timothy Long set himself the challenge of completing the 1,600 nautical mile voyage around the British coast, setting out from Hamble Point Marina on July 16.

He officially broke the record of Tom Webb, who sailed around Britain aged 17 in 2011, after re-entering Hamble to a rousing reception from onlookers.

It was email encouragement from Ellen — who Timothy lists as his greatest inspiration — that led to him taking the challenge on his 28-foot Hunter Impala named Alchemy.

Isle of Wight County Press: Timothy Long at the helm of Alchemy which he sailed round Britain. Credit: Marc Turner / PFM Pictures) Timothy Long at the helm of Alchemy which he sailed round Britain. Credit: Marc Turner / PFM Pictures)

Yesterday (Wednesday) he received a warm welcome from Ellen herself as he visited the Isle of Wight ahead of the final leg back to Hamble.

Timothy said: “The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust does amazing work with young people to rebuild their confidence after cancer treatment.

"The experience of being together on a boat can be a turning point for those who have been through the worst of times."

Ellen said: “It is an incredible achievement for anyone to sail single-handed around the UK, but to do it at 15 is something else.

"The legacy of what he’s done will be far-reaching in terms of helping to change the lives of young people in recovery from cancer."