A MAN from Painswick will be rowing across the Atlantic Ocean to raise funds for charity.

Martyn Thornton, 61, will be taking part in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, a 3000 mile journey which will see him endure the extremes of ocean weather.

He is aiming to complete the row in 60 days or less which should see him set a world record for the oldest solo male to complete the challenge.

Martyn is rowing to raise funds for HorseHeard, a equine based therapy charity helping to improve emotional health and well being of children, young people, service veterans and adults in need.

Leaving La Gomera in the Canaries this December when he starts his challenge, he will follow the southerly trade winds and currents to arrive in Antigua.

Martyn is no stranger to extreme endurance challenges having hiked in 2017 the Pacific Crest Trail in America which runs from the Mexican border to the Canadian boarder – a total distance of 2700 miles taking him five months with an average daily distance of 20 miles through hot deserts, high mountain passes, dense forests and uninhabited wilderness.

If you would like to sponsor his row, whilst getting your logo or name on the boat he has various packages available for companies and individuals - you may even get to name his boat, contact him by email at martyn.thornton@btinternet.com, call 07785 350840 or visit bit.ly/2HV0nbA