Shropshire record attempt rowers send message back from the Atlantic

Two teams of rowers are racing for the world record for crossing the Atlantic in less than 32 days.

After being delayed for more than two weeks because of bad weather, the crews left Gran Canaria on November 24. They are now well on their way to the finish line in Barbados.

The Toby Wallace Crew, made up of seven dedicated rowers including 47-year-old Steve Harpin from Shrewsbury, have been sending special messages to their family.

Jez Webb onboard the Toby Wallace asked for a message to be sent to the school he visited in Hampshire before setting off on the adventure.

He sent the message: "These skies are amazing, especially how the moon shines across the sky at night. Looking forward to seeing you all when I get back, from Maddy and Sullivan's Dad."

Jez visited Calmore Infants and Junior School before setting off to Gran Canaria and met with the children to tell them about his journey.

He took in some expedition foods and they tried out the sweet and sour chicken and the shepherds' pie – they all agreed they preferred the sweet and sour.

The rival transatlantic team, Oystershack, which has on board the skipper, Simon Chalk, from Loggerheads, near Market Drayton, has reported seeing dolphins.

Race organiser Gemma Chalk, of Oceanus Rowing, said: "OysterShack has reported seeing dolphins around their boat, and then Toby Wallace reported seeing dolphins when they did change over from their four hour watch which perked the crews up no end.

"There seems to be lots of aches, pains and the usual sores going on but everyone is digging deep and news from home always helps them to push on. "

The teams can be tracked during their journey on organiser Oceanus Rowing's website www.oceanusrowing.co.uk/atlantic-ocean-rowing

To donate to Stephen's good cause, which is the Bickerstaff Endoscopy unit at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital visit www.justgiving.com/Stephen-Harpin