Quadriplegic sailor awarded honorary degree

Mr Holt is a record-breaking disabled sailor who campaigns for inclusivity in his sport

A record-breaking disabled sailor paralysed at the age of 18 after diving into shallow water has been presented with an honorary degree.

Geoff Holt MBE, from Wallington near Fareham, Hampshire was the first quadriplegic sailor to cross the Atlantic and went on to set up Wetwheels, a charity that provides specially-designed accessible boats to disabled people.

Bournemouth University said the Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration was in recognition of his courage and resilience in rebuilding his life.

At a graduation ceremony held at the Bournemouth International Centre Mr Holt said it was a "tremendous honour...it's just wonderful to be recognised".

The yachtsman, paralysed at 18 was recognised for his courage and resilience in rebuilding his life

After the graduation ceremony Mr Holt said: "It's just wonderful to be recognised not just for me but for my wife too who is part of my team."

Mr Holt credits his achievements to his wife Elaine. They met while she was working as a nurse at the hospital where he was treated following his accident.

His advice to students was to focus on what you can change, rather than get bogged down in what you can't.

He said: "To use a nautical metaphor, it's about the journey. Things change at sea, the weather changes, the sea state changes and that can be said about the world we live in.

"Things change, and you have to be able to adapt."

During the 40 years since his accident, Mr Holt has earned numerous honours, including an MBE for his work in disabled sailing, a BBC South Sports Personality of the Year award, and the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs.

He circumnavigated Great Britain in a power boat in May-June 2024 and continues to inspire and support others through his involvement with the RNLI and RYA Sailability.