British sailor dies in round-the-world race

A British amateur sailor has died while participating in a round-the-world race.

Andrew Ashman was adjusting the sail of his team's boat when he was knocked unconscious by a rope on the vessel.

"This is extremely sad news and my heart goes out to his bereaved family and friends, and to his fellow crew who have come to know Andrew with great affection during his training and the early days of this race," Clipper Race founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston told reporters.

"Safety is always our utmost priority, as our record shows, and we shall investigate the incident immediately in full co-operation with the authorities."

The incident occurred 120 miles off the coast of Portugal.

Written by
Jonathan McIntosh