An OSWESTRY man who is part of a rowing team currently making its way across the Atlantic Ocean has made it past the half-way mark.

Ian Davies, rowing as part of the four-man Atlantic Mavericks team, has made it 1,351 nautical miles across the second largest ocean in the world, and now has the same distance to travel to reach Antigua.

The team is rowing as part of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, which sees teams attempting the crossing in aid of chosen charities.

The charities that the rowers will be raising funds for include The Royal British Legion, Myeloma UK, and 353 – a charity set up by the family of the 353rd soldier to be killed in Afghanistan which aims to help members of the military community by delivering long-term support.

During the crossing, the group has received a huge amount of support on their Facebook page, and have posted regular updates.

They posted a video on the page last week as they enjoyed a drink to celebrate New Year.

Their progress can be followed on the Atlantic Mavericks Facebook page – they are currently 21st in the leaderboard.

After setting of on Thursday, December 12, the group is expected to arrive in Antigua on Sunday, February 2 at approximately 2.20pm. If correct, this will mean the group completes the crossing in fewer than 52 days.