Rowers complete 'terrifying' challenge across Atlantic

A four-man team has completed a gruelling 3,000-mile row across the Atlantic, arriving in Antigua after 52 days at sea.

Team Seasoar - made up of skipper Niall Brannigan and rowers John Watling, Sam Weber and Jason Wilder - raised £80,000 for Lyme Disease UK by taking on the World's Toughest Row Atlantic.

The challenge was deeply personal for Mr Watling, from Lacock, as his daughter Yasmin has struggled with the impact of Lyme disease for more than a decade.

"We have touched a lot of people," he said. "For me, it's been about shining a light on the disease."

The men set off from the Canary Islands in December 2024 and battled exhaustion, towering waves, and difficult sea conditions on their way to Antigua.

Mr Watling described the experience as "seriously scary" and said the unpredictable waves made for one of the hardest races in the event's 10-year history.

"The waves were massive," he said. "You could hear them crashing over the boat.

"It was terrifying at times - getting out of the cabin, putting on soaking wet clothes, and rowing into the wind and darkness. But you just had to keep going."

Now back on land, Mr Watling said the race has taken a toll on his body.

"After 52 days on a boat, you're wobbling on land," Mr Watling said.

"Your calves waste away as you don't use them, it's difficult to walk, and my hips and lower back are absolutely smashed."

Mr Watling said the team is proud to have raised the funds for the charity but he believes raising awareness of Lyme disease, is just as important.

Lyme disease is caused by bacteria spread through tick bites and can lead to serious long-term health problems if not treated early.

Natasha Metcalf, co-founder of Lyme Disease UK, was in Antigua to welcome the team.

She described them as "such an inspiring group" and said their efforts would make a real difference.

"We can't thank them enough for their support and contribution as the charity's biggest-ever fundraising team," she said.

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