DONALD Crowhurst’s attempt to sail single handed around the world in the 1960s ended in tragedy and sparked two films, documentaries, a book, millions of newspaper words, and even conspiracy theories.

But over 20 years later a Teignmouth woman managed the feat without much publicity.

A headline at the time declared that Rona House sailed home in 1993 from her death-defying voyage to be met by her mum and a well earned cuppa.

She covered more than 30,000 miles on her epic three-year journey and mum Joan was the first to meet her with the words: ‘I expect you would like a nice cup of tea dear!’

During her amazing circumnavigation in a 26-foot yacht, Rona was nearly killed on several occasions.

She fell overboard without a safety line but managed to get back on board; aas rammed by a hit and run freighter and broke three ribs; had a narrow escape with murderous pirates; and survived a typhoon which threatened to take her to the bottom of the ocean.

A former mathematician, the trip was a dream come true.

She only took up sailing 11 years earlier, but became so hooked and skilled at the job she qualified as a professional yacht skipper, taking boats all over the world.

And she did the first half of her journey to New Zealand using only a sextant for navigation – just like Captain Cook 200 years before.

Rona set sail from Falmouth in her small but tough Vancouver 27 cutter Cacique in 1990.

From her home overlooking Teignmouth harbour she said: ‘It was terribly lonely at times. On one occasion I was on my own for 48 days.

‘Although I will probably circumnavigate again, it will not be on my own. Once is enough!’

Her achievement was celebrated at a civic reception given by town mayor Jack Froud at Bitton House. Presenting her with a plaque of Teignmouth, he said: ‘This was a magnificent achievement – we are all proud of you.’