A HAMPSHIRE yachtsman had his epic journey to sail into the record books stalled this morning by strong winds.

Quadriplegic sailor Geoff Holt was due to start the third leg of his journey from Portland to Brixham this morning, but has been forced to stay shoreside because of excess wind.

Geoff, who is hoping to become the first disabled person to sail single-handed around Great Britain, was expecting one of his longest days at sea, covering an estimated 60 miles. He was aiming to cover the distance before worsening weather conditions forecast during the next few days took hold.

But this morning a spokesman for his PR team confirmed that Geoff was still in Portland and was hoping that he may be able to make the short distance to Lyme Regis by the end of the day if weather allowed.

It is the latest blow for Geoff in his record-breaking attempt who had to abort his initial try after his 15ft trimaran was hit by waves and he was thrown into the water just two miles after launching his bid.

The yachtsman, from Shedfield, is being supported on the water by a fully crewed rescue craft throughout his 60 day challenge.