After months of uncertainty, Devon based adventurer Simon Chalk has been granted an extension for his yacht build at Teignmouth Visitor Centre. The original deadline for the project was 30 September 2006, and Chalk has been battling with local authorities for an extension during the last few months – click here for previous story. 

Chalk is building 68ft trimaranSpirit of Teignmouthin the hope of completing one of the last great sailing firsts – to sail a multihull ‘the wrong way round the world’ – westabouts, against prevailing winds and currents.

The John Shuttleworth designed trimaran has been housed in Teignmouth Visitor Centre, making the project accessible to both the local community and the outside world: the centre has been attracting up to 1,000 visitors a day.

Chalk, understandably delighted with the decision, commented: ‘we are delighted with the decision, all we have ever wanted to do is build the yacht and share a global sailing campaign with as many people as possible.’

If you’re in the area, why not go and watch the yacht take shape as it nears completion. The Visitor Centre is FREE to enter and open from 09:00 – 19:00 7 days a week. For more details tel: 44 (0)1364 644 712 or see the website at www.spirit-of-teignmouth.com .