Rams man Frank’s Atlantic row quest
FOR those familiar with Ramsbottom United’s Harry Williams Riverside Stadium, you may well have seen the name of Frank Rothwell.
This is emblazoned across the Hospitality Suite situated along the touchline nearest the players tunnel.
It was Frank, who, a handful of years ago, dismantled the suite at Oldham Athletic’s ground, as the Football League side began building a new stand. It had served as an ideal viewing platform on matchdays for sponsors of the Latics.
Having known Rams Chairman Harry Williams for some time, Frank, through his company Manchester Cabins, offered the building to the club, free of charge, and this was gratefully accepted and has been used on many occasions since, housing match sponsors at the Pitching In Northern Premier League club.
Frank, who has visited the Rams on many occasions, decided that at 70 years of age, it was time for a new challenge.
And in early December, Frank decided to row 3,000 across the Atlantic, departing from the Canaries that month and arriving in Antigua this week having averaged around 50 miles per day.
“I’m rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic for Alzheimer’s Research UK because I want to raise £1 million to help them find a life changing dementia treatment,” he said ahead of the challenge.
The only support Frank had while rowing the Atlantic Ocean was a daily radio call from the emergency cover boat.
They spoke once a day to make sure he was feeling well and to provide advice on any small and easily treatable injuries.
Frank will be the star of a Channel 4 documentary!
The team over at Chief have been following Frank’s journey and hope to broadcast their footage later this year.
Who knows, his next challenge could well be to persuade Rams manager Chris Willcock that he is fit enough to sign for the Rams next season!
Everyone at Ramsbottom United sends their good wishes to Frank, and congratulates him on an amazing feat.
Anyone wishing to donate should contact https:// www. justgiving. com/ fundraising/ frankrothwell