Round the world solo sailing legend Sir Robin Know-Johnston is on the verge of another single-handed epic – at the age of 75.

Knox-Johnston departed the UK from Portsmouth at lunchtime today, bound for France.

Once across the English Channel, he’ll soon take part in the transatlantic race, Route du Rhum, starting from Saint Malo on November 2.

The 3,500 mile voyage will take him to the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe on board his yacht Gray Power.

It is the second time the former Navy man will compete in the contest.

Knox-Johnston will be the oldest competing sailor. “I am fit, I feel very strong and I am eager to get out there,” he said.

“Age has nothing to do with it,” he added. “I am fitter than most. I have worked hard to get my boat ready and have been out sailing a lot for practice, including doing the Round the Island Race.

“Racing solo on the ocean is where I feel most at home. The Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe is a great race to a lovely island. I won’t win but I shall have a lot of fun participating.”

Full interview in tomorrow’s Daily Echo