AFTER a thousand miles, gale force winds and engine trouble, the two boats taking part in Britain's first ever "sailathon" were back in their home berths this week.
The Orolong and Flying Free followed the east coast of Britain from Greenwich Yacht Club, on the Thames, to Port Edgar YC, on the Firth of Forth, near Edinburgh, and back to raise money for charity.
Skipper Paul Woodhead, from Kevington, plans to publish a book on the adventure, giving the proceeds to Demelza House children's hospice and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
While Flying Free enjoyed a relatively easy passage home, it was a different story for Orolong.
Engine trouble forced her to make port in Northumberland, delaying her for two days. She then had to take refuge in Whitby and Felixstowe as gales whipped up huge waves.
Flying the flag of the Royal National Mission for Deep Sea Fishermen, Orolong attracted huge crowds in all the fishing ports.
She is now tied up at Bugsby's Reach, near the Millennium Dome.
July 12, 2002 13:00
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