The funeral of Hilary Lister, the world record-breaking quadriplegic sailor who died last month aged 46, is to take place this afternoon.

Dozens of tributes to the inspirational yachtswoman poured in, after her death on August 18.

Hilary, who lived in Dunkirk near Canterbury, was born able-bodied but a degenerative condition left her wheelchair-bound at the age of 15.

While studying for a PhD at the University of Oxford, her condition grew worse and at the age of 27 she became paralysed from the neck down.

In 2003, she started sailing in Westbere, just outside Canterbury.

She soon fell in love with the sport – which she was able to do thanks to innovative "sip-puff" technology that allowed her to sail using three straws operated by her mouth, linked to a Power Assist System.

The indomitable sportswoman went on to break several records – sailing across the English Channel, sailing solo around the Isle of Wight, and in 2009 completing a solo round-Britain voyage.

Hilary's funeral is taking place at St Michael's Church in Hernhill, near Faversham, at 2pm today.

Afterwards, a reception will be held at Boughton Golf Club in Boughton-under-Blean.

Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP online.

Guests are asked to wear something bright, in celebration of Hilary's inspirational spirit.

A memorial service will also be held at Jesus College, Oxford in due course, for those unable to attend this service.