Quadriplegic record breaker Hilary Lister has cast off for her second attempt at sailing around Britain.

The 37-year-old from Dunkirk, near Faversham, set off for her solo voyage from Plymouth at 4.50am this morning. Her plans to leave yesterday were delayed because of rough seas.

The challenge is due to take the Lions Club member, who first embarked upon her ‘Round Britain Dream’ in June 2008, 12 weeks to complete.

Despite bad weather forcing Hilary to abandon the original attempt, she still managed to sail further than any other female disabled sailor.

Other achievements include becoming the first disabled sailor to cross the English Channel single-handed in 2005, and then in 2007 she became the first disabled woman to sail solo around the Isle of Wight.

In her latest challenge Hilary also aims to become the first disabled sailor to make a solo crossing of the Irish Sea.

Hilary’s specially designed boat, “Me Too” is powered using a ‘Sip and Puff’ system, which uses three straws connected to sensitive pressure switches to control the boat.

The computer is mounted in front of Hilary and a gentle “sip” on one straw will cause the boat to go to starboard, whilst a “puff” will take the boat to port.

The second straw controls the winch motor for both sails in a similar way, whilst the third straw allows Hilary to control her Raymarine autopilot, to trim one sail relative to the other and raise or lower the height of the boom.

She said: “We were delayed this week because of the wind and rain, so we sneaked off on Wednesday afternoon.

“The aim of the whole adventure is to encourage others to go and sail and try something new.

“We are also raising money for the Dream Trust, which helps other disabled sailors fulfill their dreams and aims to show people that just because you’re disabled it doesn’t mean you can’t live challenging lives.

“Last summer was the windiest on record, so it took us a long time to do a short stretch of the country.

“We ran out of time and it was disappointing we had to postpone.

“Sailing can be a little frustrating as it is governed by the tides, but it is something you just have to live with.

“The best way to prepare for a challenge like this, is by spending as much time outside and on the water, but in reality I have had to spend a lot of time on the computer looking at the logistics.

“I’m looking forward to the adventure and all being well hope to reach Dover at the end of July or August.”
To track Hilary’s progress or donate to her charity visit http://www.hilarylister.com/