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Ellen MacArthurYou are in: Derby > Sport > Ellen MacArthur > Hero's welcome for brave Ellen  Ellen MacArthur holds up flares in celeb Hero's welcome for brave EllenBy Gavin Bevis Derbyshire's Ellen MacArthur returned to cheering crowds after becoming the fastest person to sail solo around the world. More than 8,000 people gathered at Falmouth Harbour to welcome back Ellen MacArthur after she broke the record for sailing round the world in the fastest time. The 28-year-old received loud cheers as she lit flares to celebrate her success - and the news she's to become a Dame in recognition of her achievements. Use the links on the right to listen to Ellen's arrival in Falmouth and see pictures from the dayEllen arrived back in Falmouth shortly before midday and was escorted into the harbour by a huge flotilla of boats. She thanked the crowds that had gathered, saying: "Seeing you all here to welcome me is an unbelievable experience. "I can't believe how many people are out here watching." MacArthur then embraced her parents, Ken and Avril, who joined her on the boat, saying it would be "fantastic to spend time with them again". Use the links on the right to listen to Ellen's arrival in Falmouth and see pictures from the dayEllen set a new record for sailing solo around the world - 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes and 33 seconds - slicing more than a day and eight hours off the record set by Frenchman Francis Joyon last year. Tributes and congratulations have come from far and wide. The Prince of Wales sent "heartfelt congratulations" and added: "The whole of the United Kingdom is, I know, delighted by your success." Prime Minister Tony Blair said in a statement: "This is a stunning achievement. The whole country is very proud of Ellen." Minister for Sport Richard Caborn described MacArthur's record as "extraordinary". "I am thrilled that Ellen's managed to break this world record. "It's an amazing accomplishment and one that, added to Mike Golding's third place in the Vendee Globe last week, means there's never been such a huge interest in sailing." Use the links on the right to listen to Ellen's arrival in Falmouth and see pictures from the daylast updated: 01/05/2008 at 17:19 Have Your Say
We are doing a project right now about hero's. Do you think that Ellen your hero or your idol? There is a fine line between an idol and a hero.
I watched the bbc doc 23feb05 and I was totally amazed at the courage/bravery of Ellen Mcarthur . She is a remarkable woman, and I envy her, her stamina.My children watched with me and were totally enthralled. well done.
congratulations, i watched u on the news 24/7
Your great Ellen and deserve every praise you get - your a true heroine
I think what Ellen has done is just fantastic, she is so brave and focused what an achievement. I am surprised the 'powers that be' don't want to say that her home village is now in Nottinghamshire!! they certainly won't like the fact that Derbyshire is to be mentioned!!! Well done Ellen!
A wonderful achievement - we have followed your progress. Many congratulations
well done ellen and have a good time with your family
Welcome home Dame Ellen
Fantasic effort by a fantastic lady. She is mighty fine and I would like her to be mine....
Congratulations Ellen
from
Susan Malcolm Carol and Stuart Boon from 94 Victory Road Osmaston Derby
From one Derbyshire woman to another: you're a great inspiration, what a fantastic achievement!
Rule Britannia!
Britannia rule the waves.
Congratulations Ellen you're an outstanding woman whose a credit to all of us. You deserved your "Dame". Once again congratulations from me and my family in Belper, Derbyshire.
Ferg - Your sister's ever so brave! (Oh & well done to her too!)
Fantastic well done,
Wellcome Home.
I just want to say a massive well done! i would never put myself into her position and think she has done something which is amazing! such a brave girl! congrats!!!
Fantastic well done,
Wellcome Home.
heard enough of her now let her get some sleep You are in: Derby > Sport > Ellen MacArthur > Hero's welcome for brave Ellen  |
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