Bennett's boat Fujifilm is one of eight Class 40 yachts in the race

Devon sailors Alex Bennett and Malcolm Dickinson have taken an early lead in the Round Britain and Ireland race.

The duo got off to a flying start in their yacht Fujifilm on Sunday, quickly getting to the head of the field after the boats left Plymouth Sound.

The 50 yachts will race 2,000 miles clockwise around the British Isles with the first stage ending in Kinsale.

Bennett said: "It will be a tactical first leg and at this stage the wind is looking light and changeable."

The 2010 Round Britain and Ireland Race is the 12th time the event has been staged.

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