The Hampshire-based organisers of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race have announced a record global following for the most recent edition of the race.

Clipper Ventures, based in Gosport, said the 2013-14 race had enjoyed a cumulative audience of 3.3 billion people in more than 200 countries.

The race followed 12 amateur crews from 40 nationalities on a 12-month, 40,000-mile adventure.

Jonathan Levy, communications director at Clipper Ventures, said: “The Clipper Race is capturing the imagination of audiences around the world, not only because it is compelling viewing but also because it could be them.

“Our crew members achieve something remarkable, racing across oceans and, for many, circumnavigating the planet – no experience necessary as we provide all the training.

“It’s very inspiring.”

The race is currently recruiting crew members for the next edition, which will start next year.