AFTER completing a magnificent world sailing record, what better way to celebrate your success than with a nice piece of steak?! That s exactly what Potters Bar teenage boy sailor Michael Perham did when he sailed into the record books yesterday (Thursda

AFTER completing a magnificent world sailing record, what better way to celebrate your success than with a nice piece of steak?!

That's exactly what Potters Bar teenage boy sailor Michael Perham did when he sailed into the record books yesterday (Thursday).

Following nine months at sea, the 17-year-old has now notched up his second Guinness World Record, by becoming the youngest person to sail solo around the world.

When he crossed the 'line' - between Lizard Point in Cornwall and France - at 9.47am, Michael was greeted by his ecstatic dad Peter - who had sailed out in another boat from Falmouth to join him.

And it was Peter who provided the celebratory steak and chips!

Michael, of Oakroyd Avenue, said: "I've crossed the finish line whoopee!

"I've made it, I've made my dream come true and it feels amazing.

"A BIG, BIG thanks to my dad, mum, all the sponsors and every one who has helped me along the way."

HMS Mersey and a Royal Navy helicopter also greeted Michael at the finish point of his 30,000-mile voyage.

He said of his royal-like welcome: "I feel very honoured."

Dad Peter, 49, added: "Mike is a very special son, he has done incredibly well.

"He has shown that with determination, you can succeed even in the most adverse circumstances."

Michael is a former pupil of Chancellor's School in Brookmans Park but is now a sports student at Oaklands College in St Albans.

Principal Mark Dawe said: "We are so proud Mike has successfully completed such an extraordinary challenge.

"We look forward to welcoming him back on campus next week and having him with us for another year."

Michael was credited by the Guinness World Records after he became the youngest person to sail across the Atlantic unaided at the age of 14.