TRIBUTES have been paid to a world-renowned Hampshire sailor who has been found dead beside a German lake.

Lymington yachtsman Chris Law was widely regarded one of the most gifted racing sailors of his generation. His prestigious career was cut short when he was found dead at Lake Constance in Germany aged just 55.

His death came as he was trying to build a new life away from sailing.

A Foreign Office spokesman confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances.

Mr Law leaves two daughters by his first marriage.

His sailing career saw him race with the sport's elite at events such as the Olympics, the America's Cup, the Admiral's Cup and numerous match racing events. But it was in Lymington, where he used to sail Cadet dinghies, that it all started.

Mr Law developed into a driven, highly motivated sailor and he was feared by his opponents.

Despite a fiery temperament, Mr Law was a patient and dedicated teacher, spending hours on the water guiding and instructing other sailors.

His natural ability was second to none, and he was a master of the racing start, often hitting the line exactly as the start gun sounded.

Match racing was Mr Law's speciality and he excelled in his home waters, winning the world-famous Royal Lymington Cup on three separate occasions.

Royal Lymington Yacht Club secretary Ian Gawn said: "We very much enjoyed watching Chris' skill in winning three Royal Lymington Cups.

"His death is a huge loss not just to his family but to the sailing world."

Royal Yachting Association chief executive Rod Carr paid tribute to Mr Law.

"Chris Law was one of the great racing sailors of his generation and a major mover in the British yacht racing scene for over 30 years," he said.

"His flair and determination will be long remembered."

A service in celebration of Mr Law's life is being held on Friday at St Mary's & St Gabriel's Church in South Harting near Petersfield. The service starts at 2.45pm and all are welcome to attend.

His family has requested that no flowers are bought but instead donations may be made to the RYA Onboard fund, a programme designed to encourage youngsters to take up sailing.