The Dowager Viscountess Cobham | |
|---|---|
| Born | 30 December 1958 |
| Nationality | British |
| Alma mater | University of Birmingham |
| Known for | First British woman to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world |
| Spouse(s) | John Lyttelton, 11th Viscount Cobham (m. 1997, died 2006) |
Lisa Lyttelton, Dowager Viscountess Cobham (née Clayton, born 30 December 1958) is the first British woman to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world.[1] She was educated in Birmingham at the Church of England School for Girls, Edgbaston, and the University of Birmingham.[2]
On 17 September 1994 Clayton set out to attempt two world records, namely "Fastest Sail Around the World by a Woman, Single-Handed Without Assistance" and "First British Woman to Sail Single-Handed and Non-Stop Around the World." She returned on 29 June 1995, after 285 days at sea.
On her thirty-eight foot yacht, called Spirit of Birmingham, Clayton survived the 31,000-mile (50,000 km) journey despite capsizing twice. Her vessel was named after her home city and the university which contributed over £40,000 and expertise to make it possible for Clayton to realise her dream. On 1 October 1996, Clayton was recognised as an Honorary Freeman of the City of Birmingham.[3]
On 1 August 1997 she married the 11th Viscount Cobham, owner of Hagley Hall in Worcestershire. He died in 2006.[4]
