World Class sailor Jim Turner will represent his adopted country of New Zealand in the Games at Weymouth

A world-class yachtsman who honed his skills in the seas off Lyme Regis is to compete in the Olympic Games – for New Zealand.

Former Woodroffe School pupil Jim Turner, 36, has been chosen to represent his adopted country in the “Star” class at Weymouth, in July.

Jim is the grandson of the late Ron (Sam) Crabb, a Lyme boatman, and the son of Val and Peter Turner, who emigrated to New Zealand some years ago.

He followed his brother Chris in joining Lyme Regis sailing club when he was 10 and quickly showed his potential, progressing to club awards and promotion to the RYA youth squad. He went on to win six world titles in various classes and has been competing as an international yachtsman, including sailing on the British GBR Challenge.

Jim has lived in New Zealand for 10 years, and is married to a New Zealander. The couple have two daughters.

Proud mum Val told The Herald: “He was approached by Hamish Pepper in October 2011 to partner him in the “Star” class for an Olympic challenge. They proved to be very competitive and consequently won the country selection for the Games.”