Homecoming for Alex Thompson postponed

THE homecoming for world-renowned sailor Alex Thomson has been postponed due to expected poor weather.

Hundreds were set to welcome Alex back to his home town of Gosport following his second place finish in the Vendee Globe, a round-the-world yacht race, last month.

Alex, 42, was set to sail into Portsmouth Harbour on Sunday afternoon, surrounded by ships and boats.

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The homecoming is expected to take place on the weekend of February 11 and February 12, according to a statement issued by his firm.

A statement on Alex Thompson Racing’s Facebook page said: ‘Due to weather warnings being put in place for wet weather and strong winds this weekend across the south coast, Alex’s homecoming back to Portsmouth Harbour & Gosport is going to be postponed to next weekend 11th/12th February.’

A ceremony in the Falklands Gardens was due to take place this weekend, with speeches from Alex and the Mayor of Gosport, Councillor Lynn Hook.

Alex finished the Vendee Globe on January 20 after spending 74 days, 19 hours 35 minutes and 15 seconds.

He described finishing the race as ‘an amazing feeling.’

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The homecoming has been organised by Alex Thompson Racing and Gosport Borough Council.

Councillor John Beavis, who represents Gosport Borough Council at Gosport Marine Scene, said they will be excited to welcome him back.