A NORTH Fambridge sailor has been recognised for his charity work with an award from a national sailing publication.

Colin Stracey, who runs the Premier Sailing School in Fambridge Yacht Haven, has been awarded the ‘Cruise of the Year 2016’ award along with his wife Jan.

The award is voted for by readers of Sailing Today magazine, and recognises Colin for the Round Britain for Macmillan trip he organised earlier this year.

A team of sailors from Premier Sailing School sailed around the country to raising just shy of £6,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Sailing Today editor, Sam Fortescue said: “First Class Sailing’s east coast franchisee, Colin Stracey, first came to tell us about his charitable Round Britain cruise last spring.

“The plan was to take on boat from Fambridge Yacht Haven round Great Britain in seven legs, heading anticlockwise.

“In the event, Colin managed to fill not one but two boats for those seven legs, meaning that this is really an award for Colin and his 42 crew.

“He was inspired to raise the money for Macmillan, which helped his family cope with his son James’ cancer. An achievement in every sense.”

Colin and Jan were presented with their award at the Southampton Boatshow last weekend.

After getting his award, Colin said: “It feels a little strange. We didn’t do this for the recognition. I think this award is really for all the crews and back up people that helped us along the way.”

The Round Britain trip will run again this year, as Colin looks to add to the £6,000 total raised.

If you would like to take part in next year’s event, which will begin on May 1, email colin@premiersailing.co.uk.