Emotions ran high at the Cowes Yacht Haven pontoon as Maiden UK (03) made a triumphant return to home waters in strong winds and choppy waters.

The former Whitbread Yacht crossed the Royal Yacht Squadron finish line at 10:52 UTC, 16th April after 41 days at sea.

Skipper Heather Thomas and her all-female crew are in with a chance to take the overall handicap IRC title - then declared the winner of the OGR!