HAMPSHIRE yachtswoman Emma Richards today moved into second place in the Around Alone race after battling overnight storms.

The 27-year-old spent a sleepless night navigating through 70mph winds and waves of up to 50ft on her 60ft yacht, Pindar.

She said: "It was the longest 12 hours of my life last night, but I'm pleased that both myself and the boat have got through this in one piece.

"With a little bit of luck it won't be long before I sail further south and the sun will start to come out."

Miss Richards, of Hamble, said: "It is a bonus just to have survived, but to realise I'm gaining ground on the leader means I am very much in the race."