SAILORS from Weymouth and Portland joined thousands of others across the globe to take part in the world’s largest sailing event, Bart’s Bash, at the weekend.

The annual sailing event, in its third year, is held in memory of Dorset Olympic sailor, Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson, who died while training for the America’s Cup in 2013.

Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) saw Weymouth Sailing Club, Castle Cove Sailing Club, Chesil Sailability, Osprey Training Centre and the Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre unite for the event, in aid of the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation (ASSF).

Members of the British Sailing Team, including Olympic medallists Hannah Mills, Saskia Clark and Nick Dempsey, joined sailors on the water for a huge race on Saturday afternoon.

Saskia said: “The word has spread and it’s getting bigger and better. It’s great fun and a way of remembering Bart for being the awesome guy that he was.

“We were devastated when the accident happened and this helps to keep his memory alive, especially for his kids.

“Today is a great way of introducing people to sailing and show them what an exciting sport it is.”

Hannah added: “Bart was a huge inspiration to us all growing up. It’s amazing to have a special day to remember him. “

The foundation’s objective for 2016 is to promote awareness for, and development of, disabled sailing globally.

Fellow Olympian Luke Patience said: “I’m here today to have lots of fun for the big man. This event creates a buzz around the sport and it’s important to keep the sport accessible.”

And Dylan Fletcher was joined by his girlfriend and fellow sailor, Charlotte Dobson, for the race.

Dylan said: “This event is wicked and what it was all about for Bart.

“It’s amazing to have so many people down here. The most important part is getting the kids involved and having lots of fun.”

Bart’s Bash has seen more than 45,000 sailors take part in 62 countries around the world.

This year, about 330 yacht clubs and sailing venues in more than 50 countries signed up to participate.