THE Lighthouse in Poole has announced that record breaking, Poole-based solo yachtswoman Pip Hare has become its latest patron. 

Pip is the eighth woman to complete the Vendée Globe single handed non-stop 24,000-mile round-the-world yacht race – more men have walked on the moon. 

A regular at Lighthouse, where she has hosted two fascinating ‘Evening With’ events, she is currently training, race testing and fundraising for her latest bid to compete as hard as she can in the Vendée. 

She said: “I am honoured to be asked to become a Patron of Lighthouse.  

“As one of the largest cultural organisations outside of London, Lighthouse has been instrumental in putting Poole on the map and focussing the attention of the wider world on our wonderful town.  

“Poole is home to my Vendée Globe campaign. I have a brilliant team here, I love being part of this community, and I am incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of local people and companies.” 

Lighthouse chief executive Elspeth McBain said: “Pip is a huge inspiration to me and to our local community and I am very proud that she has agreed to support Lighthouse as our patron. 

“As a major Poole organisation, we are fully behind her campaign to compete in the Vendée Globe, but also behind her vision to create a world class ocean racing team here in our town.  

“Pip embodies courage, determination, exceptional skill, bravery, self-belief, and is such a huge role model, especially for women and girls. 

“She is a local treasure that I believe should be cherished and supported. I can’t wait to see what she achieves next.”