LT-GOVERNOR Sir Fabian Malbon has spoken of his pride at his son’s efforts in the Vendee Globe single-handed round-the-world yacht race.

Jonny Malbon, 34 (pictured), was forced to retire from the race at the weekend because of a metre-long tear in the mainsail on his Open 60 Artemis II.

He was about 300 miles south of New Zealand’s South Island when he made the decision and Sir Fabian said his son had had no choice but to call it a day and head for Auckland.

‘It was a hugely difficult decision for him because he really wanted to finish,’ he said.

‘But the positive side of it is that he now has about 17,000 miles solo and, by the time he gets to Auckland, he will have done 60 continuous days at sea by himself.

‘All of that is going to prepare him for the next Vendee in four years’ time.’

Sir Fabian said Jonny had already expressed his desire to take part in the race again.