man has died after falling from a yacht into the English Channel.
The sailor, from Greater Manchester, is believed to have drowned in waters off northwest France at round 2pm on Friday.
He is assumed to have been participating within the Royal Escape Race from Shoreham-by-Sea to the Normandy port of Fecamp. The competitors was launched in 1977 to mark the Queen’s silver jubilee.
A close-by fishing vessel went to the scene to help French rescue groups, whereas the UK Coastguard supplied communications help.
The man, who has not been recognized, was taken to hospital within the metropolis of Le Havre by helicopter.
A spokesman for Sussex Police stated: “Sussex Police were made aware of a man having sadly died in the English Channel after falling from a yacht in French waters in the early hours of Saturday morning.
“The incident is understood to have happened at around 2pm on Friday.
“Police are supporting the coastguard by offering liaison with the man's family and will continue to offer support to the relevant agencies while the full circumstances of the situation are established.”
In a message posted on its Facebook web page, Sussex Yacht Club stated: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our fellow sailors yesterday.
“Sussex Yacht Club are working with the police, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch to assist with their enquiries.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and supporting our sailors at this difficult time.”
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