Crew member dies after falling overboard during Clipper yacht race

One of the crew members taking part in the Clipper Round the World Race has died after falling overboard.

Sarah Young was taking part in the prestigious race which will stopover in Derry this summer.

Sarah (pictured), who was 40 years old and from London, was on board the IchorCoal boat in the Pacific Ocean when she was swept overboard.

Her death follows that of London paramedic Andrew Ashman, who was knocked unconscious in September on board the same boat.

Sarah's cause of death is yet to be confirmed but is suspected to be drowning or exposure, organisers say. The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Councillor Elisha McCallion has expressed her shock and sadness at the tragic death.

“I am deeply saddened at the news and would like to extend my sincere sympathy, and those of the people of the city and district, to Sarah’s  family at this very sad time. Our thoughts and  prayers go out to everyone associated with the Clipper Race, to all of the crew members, including members of our own Derry~Londonderry~Doire team, and the Clipper Round the World Race support team, who are affected by this tragic incident.

“From speaking with those associated with the Clipper Round the World Race, I understand that Sarah was a very popular team member, with a real passion for adventure and a real team player. Our city has a very close affiliation to the Clipper Round the World Race, this is our third time participating in the event and we are looking forward to welcoming the teams to our port next summer as a stopover location on the final stage of the Race.

"We will be making contact with the skipper and crew of the Derry~Londonderry~Doire yacht and Clipper Ventures over the weekend to express our condolences and to provide any support and assistance we can,” she added.