Bullimore plans second solo voyage

Yachtsman Tony Bullimore (right) yesterday announced he was planning another solo bid to sail round the world.

The British sailor, who spent nearly five days trapped in the hull of his overturned yacht in the Southern Ocean earlier this year, said he had made the decision while competing in the Round Europe Race.

Returning to the sea had left him feeling exhilarated once again, he said from the German city of Kiel, after the competition's third stage.

"It has been really good fun. I have a crew of five so I am not on my own and we are doing very well in the race," he added.

Mr Bullimore's yacht, Exide Challenger came in fourth in the monohull category in the last stage from Arendal in Norway, giving the crew an overall placing of fifth out of seven boats.

The race is the first time the 58-year-old Birmingham businessman has put to sea since his televised ordeal in the Vendee Globe round-the-world race in January.

Mr Bullimore was eventually rescued by an Australian frigate after surviving in an air-pocket in his capsized hull, braving bitter temperatures and losing one of his little fingers while shutting a hatch.

Mr Bullimore said he intended to take part in the Round Alone race, a solo round-the-world competition due to start in autumn next year.

"I have decided to go round the world again. I was thinking about it before but did not want to make up my mind until I put to sea again.

"But it has all gone so well that I think will definitely do it," he added.