A lone sailor says he lost everything when the boat that was his home for two years ran aground.

Eastern Daily Press: Sailor John Favell on his stricken yacht Mithril. Picture: MAURICE GRAYSailor John Favell on his stricken yacht Mithril. Picture: MAURICE GRAY (Image: Archant)

John Favell was left with just the clothes he was standing in when the 43ft yacht Mithril smashed into groynes and beached at Cart Gap, near Happisburgh.

Since the accident in the early hours of Saturday, Mr Favell has been staying at The Hill House Inn in the village.

He had been on the way from Hull to the Thames when disaster struck as the listing boat buffeted against the timber beach defences.

Wellwishers have rallied round, raising money to ease his plight while preparations are made to salvage the damaged vessel.

But after wind and waves lashed the boat on Tuesday night, fears have been raised that it cannot be saved.

'The boat was my only home, everything I had was on board. I had been living in Hull and was sailing to the Thames,' explained Mr Favell.

'Hopefully I can be here as long as it takes to get the boat back, but she looks to be in jeopardy. The tidal surge stripped the cockpit. The condition is getting worse and worse.'

Mr Favell has been provided free accommodation at the Hill House and was given money raised from a Halloween quiz night at the pub.

He said: 'The silver lining has been the support I have had; the generosity has been unbelievable, particularly from everyone at Hill House.

'I am coping, my attitude is never give up, never surrender.'