A FLEET of 12 ocean racing yachts have set off from Southend Pier to take part in the world’s longest race.

The Clipper Round-the-World Yacht Race will see a total of 670 race crew battle 40,000 miles of ocean - visiting a total of 16 ports on six continents.

Race officer, Sue Hancock, from the Benfleet Yacht Club, set off cannons to mark the start of the race as crowds gathered on the pier to get a glimpse of the action.

Clipper Race Founder and Chairman, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, said: "I was delighted to start the ninth edition of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race in Southend."

*More pictures in tomorrow's Echo