The Isle of Wight yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur has crossed the finish line off the coast of Western France at the end of the Vendee Globe Round the World Race.

Michel Desjoyeaux - saluted Ellen MacArthur

35,000 people had gathered on the French quayside ahead of her crossing the finish line at 8.36pm local time (1936 GMT).

Michel Desjoyeaux of France has already won the Yacht Race ahead of Ellen, crossing the finishing line just before 1915 GMT on Saturday.





Ellen paid tribute to Desjoyeaux by radio from her boat. "My congratulations to Mich, he's sailed a great race, and I'm very happy that we've been able to race against each other right up to near the finish line," she said.

Celebrations on the quayside

She recieved a rapturous reception from friends, family and the large contingent of British and French fans who have taken the 24 year old to their hearts.

The damage to the mast happened on Wednesday after a cable holding the top of the mast snapped, making it no longer strong enough to use the full power of the sails.

She also had probems with her navigation light in the closing stages.

Her parents Ken and Avril and younger brother Fergus, 19, were at the finishing line in France to greet her - Ken got on board Kingfisher to embrace his daughter

Click here for the full background on Ellen MacArthur's incredible journey from BBC Sports Online.