Grandad, 70, is oldest to row Atlantic
A grandfather has become the oldest person to row 3,000 miles unassisted across the Atlantic Ocean – raising more than £640,000 for dementia research.
Frank Rothwell, 70, from Oldham, set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on December 12 and crossed the finish line in Antigua in the Caribbean on Saturday, reuniting with Judith, his wife of 50 years, with time to spare until Valentine's Day.
He said crossing the finish line was a "completely euphoric moment" as he raised more than £648,000 for Alzheimer's Research UK in tribute to his brotherin-law Roger, who died with Alzheimer's aged 62 during his row.
The charity said he was the oldest person to row the Atlantic Ocean unassisted.
Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation has pledged to double the first £500,000 of donations.
Mr Rothwell went on: "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 heartbreaking 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.
"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 has sailed the Atlantic three times, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and spent five weeks on a deserted island for a Bear Grylls TV programme, spent the 56 days at sea in a boat named 'Never Too Old'.
Iceland Foods founder Sir Malcolm Walker added: "I've known Frank for many years, so I knew his determination to complete a challenge would get him this far. But seeing the heart-warming and generous support he's receiving from the public is astounding."
Hilary Evans, chief executive of Alzheimer's Research UK, said: "We're incredibly moved by Frank's determination to raise £1 million for dementia research. By taking on such a monumental challenge at 70 years old, he has helped to spread awareness and inspired people of all ages to take on their own challenges.
"To bring about life-changing treatments for dementia, fundraising efforts from ordinary people like Frank and his supporters provides a crucial lifeline to the progression of our research."
The solo row across the Atlantic is known as the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge for sponsorship reasons.
Mr Rothwell was one of just eight solo rowers competing in the competition, known as the world's toughest row, and came in 18th place – making him the oldest to take part.
Mr Rothwell's Justgiving page is at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/frankrothwell