LASTING LEGACY FOR CHEEKI RAFIKI CREW

The legacy of Cheeki Rafiki crewman James Male lives on at the QE2 Activity Centre in Hampshire.

A new wheelchair-accessible powerboat has been launched on the River Hamble, named after the sailor who was among four people lost during an Atlantic crossing in May 2014.

Graham and Lorraine Male raised almost £13,000 towards the cost of the Wheelyboat and new kayaks for the centre in memory of their son James.

The new Coulam Wheelyboat V20 will supplement the centre’s boating activities for disabled people. The QE2 Activity Centre prides itself in being fully inclusive and the special features of the Wheelyboat, developed by The Wheelyboat Trust and JM Coulam Boatbuilders, will provide users with mobility impairments with complete independence as they explore downstream and learn how to drive and crew the powerboat.

Graham said: ‘It is an honour to be able to leave such a fantastic legacy for James.’