The Army Sailing Association's Archambault 40 racing yacht - British Soldier - was officially named and launched at Fort Blockhouse in Gosport on 9 May.

The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mrs Mary Fagan was guest of honour and conducted the naming and launching ceremony in the time honoured tradition by cracking a bottle of champagne across the bow.

British Soldier is the first services yacht to be selected for the British Rolex Commodore's Cup Team.

This year, the Army Sailing Team will also compete in the Royal Ocean Racing Club's offshore points series, including The Cowes-Madeira-Cowes Race in August.

And next year, the Army Sailing Association will take part in Transglobe, sailing around the world and competing at prestigious events such as Antigua Week and The Rolex Sydney Hobart.