HAMPSHIRE ocean racer Mike Golding has paid tribute to the multi-millionaire Swiss owner of his company who has died after a long battle with illness.

Jørgen Philip-Sørensen, owner of Mike Golding Yacht Racing Ltd, passed away on January 18 aged 71.

Golding, from Warsash, said: “An ebullient character, instantly recognisable on the dock and positively exploding with enthusiasm, his support of the last two decades has brought so many people together in the sport. People such as him are truly rare and Philip will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”