THE action came thick and fast in the 65th running of the British Team Racing Championship for the Wilson Trophy on West Kirby Lake during the weekend.

But strong winds eventually claimed the upper hand and after several delays, officials had to abandon the third day of competition.

This meant the event would be decided on the first 13 stages of the round robin system on Friday and Saturday, instead of the knock-out stages for the top eight finishers.

Scottish representatives Royal Forth Hoosiers, Paddington Bears and former winners New Forest Pirates finished joint top each with ten race victories.

But the count back saw the trophy presented to Hoosiers, whose crews included West Kirby member Emma Lombard.

The Bears brought together by West Kirby members including Leo Dixon and Ben Field living around the London area were runners-up, with the Pirates coming in third.

A stormy weekend was always threatened by the weathermen and reduced sails for the Firefly dinghies was the order from the outset by hosts West Kirby Sailing Club.

West Kirby had three teams in the starting line-up and the best of them was the Wild Cats who, along with Royal Dee, posted nine victories.

The Wild Cats had Andy Cornah, Claire Lasko and John Platt-Mills helming with Charlotte Lawrence, Jodie Green and Becky Cross fulfilling the crewing rolls.

The Hilbre Highlanders achieved seven victories and West Kirby SC six.

A total of 32 teams took part, but excitement turned to disappointment for everyone as the elements had the final say.