Golding, 46, is regarded as one of the world's best offshore racers. He was honoured after an act of true sportsmanship in the Five Oceans around-the-world race.

He turned back 80 miles to rescue rival Alex Thomson after the keel broke on his yacht in high seas.

"It was the most terrifying and emotional experience of my life," said Thomson. "I am hugely grateful to Mike."

Golding holds a host of sailing records, has raced around the globe five times and was named FICO world champion in 2005/6.