A bible which has been on three around the world yacht trips, including the first ever solo non-stop circumnavigation by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, set off again this week.

Falmouth born skipper Huw Fernie set off on Monday to compete in the Clipper 2015-16 Round the World Yacht Race, taking with him the bible his grandfather presented to Sir Robin more than 45 years ago.

Huw's grandfather, the Reverend David Roberts, was padre at the Mission to Seamen in Falmouth in June 1968, when Sir Robin set out from the port for his historic circumnavigation in the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race.

Huw said: "It was originally a gift to Sir Robin when he left Falmouth with Suhaili, and after the trip Robin returned it.

"It then went with Nigel Rowe as he competed in the Around Alone race and once again was returned safely. It left aboard the replica of Captain Cook's Endeavour and completed its third circumnavigation under Captain Blake.

"As my grandfather had passed away by this point it was passed on to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall which has safeguarded it ever since."

He added: "I’m really pleased that the museum has loaned me the bible for my own circumnavigation. It was a wonderful gesture by my grandfather to Robin and I’m pleased to be able to keep its journey going in his memory."

Now the bible has been released by the National Maritime Museum in Falmouth, it was used to bless the fleet before setting out from London on Monday, and will now travel with Huw as he skippers the 70 foot yacht Visit Seattle in the tenth edition of the 11-month race.

Sir Robin said: "Before I left for the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race in 1968, the Rev David Roberts asked me whether I had a bible.

"I said I did not so he bought me one. I took it around the world and when I returned I gave it back to David. "Now one of our Clipper Race skippers Huw Fernie, who happens to be the grandson of Rev David Roberts has decided to take it on his own circumnavigation. It’s a nice story and I’m really pleased for Huw that it is going full circle and that he can benefit from it in his own journey."