A LOCAL team of mixed amateur rowers are aiming to set a new world record next week, by rowing around Britain.

The world record for rowing non-stop around mainland Britain has been set by a men’s and a women’s team – but never by a mixed team.

Hoping to set a new precedent, the team of three women and two men based in Westbourne will attempt to row 2,000 miles unsupported across the choppy seas of Britain.

The men’s and women’s record of completion was 26 and 52 days, respectively.

Team member Simone Talfourd, 36, said: “We're all of the same mindset that these sorts of adventures enrich your soul and what better way to see Scotland than nipping in and out of the islands?

“Covid has helped us all appreciate the value of family and friendship and I'm so excited to take on this challenge with some really close friends. If you speak to anyone who has attempted this before they always say that the mental challenge is the hardest part, like dealing with extreme sleep deprivation. But anything worth doing isn’t going to be easy.”

The team of five aim to cast off in Cowes next week in their 10m boat and hope that their efforts will enable them to raise money for the RNLI.