AFTER six weeks at sea, a young rower from Box attempting to raise more than £20,000 by crossing the Atlantic Ocean is more than half way through his gruelling task.
Sam Williams spoke to the Chippenham News just days before setting sail and told of his excitement and nervousness at the challenge ahead.
The 24-year-old, who had been working as a proof reader for a London law firm, decided to single-handedly sail the Atlantic in order to raise money for FARM-Africa.
February 23 marked a six-week milestone for Mr Williams who has now covered more than 1,700 miles, with just under 1,500 miles left to go on his boat, Pacific Pete.
Before his departure, Mr Williams said during his time studying at the Royal Veterinary College in London, he used to pass the Ocean Rowing Society's headquarters on his way to class, and this inspired his love of the sport.
He said: "I rowed when I was at university but we weren't any good, although it was something I very much enjoyed."
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Mr Williams, whose family have lived in Box since he was 10 years old, set sail on December 12 in his 23ft long rowing boat.
A converter turning salt water into drinking water and powdered milk for his breakfast cereal, were among the supplies he took with him.
Mr Williams has been inundated with messages of support since he left on his voyage and has been writing a regular blog about his adventures.
His challenge has received the backing of celebrity explorer Michael Palin, who is patron of FARM-Africa.
A message from Mr Palin read: "Sam Williams' heroic voyage is one which I can only enviously admire and heartily applaud.
"He's doing something that demands enormous effort, concentration and courage.
"The fact that he's doing all this for such a good cause is something of which everyone involved in FARM-Africa can be immensely proud."
The world record for sailing the Atlantic is 59 days but Mr Williams said he was prepared that he may be in his boat for much longer.
Mr Williams estimates that he will arrive in Antigua around Easter time.
For more information, or to sponsor Mr Williams, visit www.justgiving.com/soloatlanticrow or www.atlanticrow2007.com
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