Mast problems for Clipper yacht

The Jersey yacht is currently languishing in 10th position

A Jersey yacht is heading for port in South Africa after experiencing problems with its forestay.

The crew of the Jersey Clipper decided to divert to Cape Town after a stainless steel wire running from the bow to the top of the mast was damaged.

Skipper Mark Taylor said the crew was disappointed, but looked forward to joining competitors in Durban for the next part of the race.

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race set sail from Liverpool in September.

Ten yachts are competing across 35,000 miles of sea, visiting 12 ports including New York and Brazil before returning to Liverpool next July.

The Jersey Clipper, which is the defending champion, is currently in 10th position.