A 70-year-old grandfather from Oldham has become the oldest person to row unassisted across the Atlantic Ocean – raising more than £640,000 for charity.
Frank Rothwell began his 3,000-mile challenge at Canary Island La Gomera on 12 December and crossed the finish line in Antigua in the Caribbean on 6 February – reuniting with Judith, his wife of 50 years.
He said crossing the finish line was a “completely euphoric moment” as he raised £648,000 for Alzheimer’s Research UK in tribute to his brother-in-law Roger, who died with the disease aged 62 during his row.
Mr Rothwell said: “I felt quite emotional approaching the finish. It took six long weeks to row the Atlantic, but the challenge itself has taken over 18 months of training and preparation, so I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved and the unbelievable journey I’ve been on.
“While rowing, I received heart-breaking messages from people who have had similar experiences to my own, with my brother-in-law, Roger, so I hope I’ve helped other families in some way too.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has reached into their pockets and donated, having the support from so many means the world to me. Thank you.”
The adventurer, who previously spent five weeks on a deserted island for a Bear Grylls TV programme, rowed in a boat nicknamed Never Too Old.
