PERFECT weather allowed for a seamless Clipper stopover this weekend and an excellent chance to show off the Island to Clipper crews, families and friends.

The Jersey crew’s heroic arrival in St Helier Harbour on Saturday morning – clinching fifth place and one of their best results – was followed by Liverpool, Singapore, Durban and Glasgow and was officially celebrated with a reception at the Town Hall.

St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft welcomed the fleet – minus Cardiff, who arrived later – along with guests from the Liverpool city council.

They made a presentation to Mr Crowcroft and thanked him for the Island’s hospitality.

Late on Saturday evening over 200 people, including the crew of Cardiff Clipper, attended a picnic in the grounds of Durrell Wildlife.

They were accompanied by the sounds of a string quartet – and even the gorillas were allowed to stay up late to welcome the sailors.

Yesterday saw another beautiful day and another full schedule of events.

Six of the Clipper yachts were hired out as corporate charters – one guest of whom was the Chief Minister Frank Walker – for a full day’s sailing and a taste of what some Clipper sailors have endured over the past ten months.