Record breaking round the world yachtswoman Dame Ellen MacArthur was greeted by Sir Teddy Taylor at special Parliamentary reception to celebrate her achievement.

Dame Ellen completed her solo round the world trip in 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes and 33 seconds, knocking 1 day, 8 hours, 35 minutes, 49 seconds off the previous fastest solo time.

At the reception, Sir Teddy Taylor, MP for Rochford and Southend East, said: "I was thrilled to be able attend this honorary reception.

"I know that everyone from school children to pensioners in the constituency have enjoyed tracking her progress on this amazing journey. It was great to meet with Ellen. Her courage and determination is inspirational."

More than 10,000 Ellen fans recently turned out to cheer on their hero as she sailed her trimaran from Greenwich to Tower Bridge along the River Thames.