TOP young Isle of Wight sailor Arthur Farley has been shortlisted for the British Elite Athletes Association's Athletes' Athlete of the Month award for February. 

Arthur, 20, of Wootton, returned to sailing last month after an eight-month lay-off with illness and recovery, following his diagnosis of the rare cancer, chronic hairy cell leukaemia.

One of four nominees for the accolade, Arthur came a creditable 34th out of 135 participants at the recent EurILCA senior European Championships in Greece.

Arthur, who has ambitions to compete for Team GB at the 2028 Olympic Games, was diagnosed with chronic leukaemia at just 19 — almost exactly a year ago.

He has since spent long stretches in hospital and had to battle Covid-19 for three weeks, but returned to sailing towards the end of last year.

To assist in his preparation, The Classic Boat Museum in Cowes allowed Arthur to use their dinghy simulator to train and rebuild his strength, and he got training on the water with Brading Haven Yacht Club.  

The award Arthur has been nominated for celebrates both sporting success and personal accomplishments.

The other three nominees, which will be voted on by their peers, also includes Grace Reid (diving), Laura Stephens (swimming) and Marcus Wyatt (skeleton).

The winner is due to be confirmed shortly.