A man has died after falling from a yacht into the English Channel.
The sailor, from Greater Manchester, is believed to have drowned in waters off northwest France at around 2pm on Friday.
He is thought to have been taking part in the Royal Escape Race from Shoreham-by-Sea to the Normandy port of Fecamp. The competition was launched in 1977 to mark the Queen’s silver jubilee.
A nearby fishing vessel went to the scene to assist French rescue teams, while the UK Coastguard offered communications support.
The man, who has not been identified, was taken to hospital in the city of Le Havre by helicopter.
A spokesman for Sussex Police said: “Sussex Police were made aware of a man having sadly died in the English Channel after falling from a yacht in French waters in the early hours of Saturday morning.
“The incident is understood to have happened at around 2pm on Friday.
“Police are supporting the coastguard by offering liaison with the man's family and will continue to offer support to the relevant agencies while the full circumstances of the situation are established.”
In a message posted on its Facebook page, Sussex Yacht Club said: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our fellow sailors yesterday.
“Sussex Yacht Club are working with the police, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch to assist with their enquiries.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and supporting our sailors at this difficult time.”
