A team of four rowers will tackle a daring dash across the Atlantic Ocean for charity, backed by The Wigley Group.
The Brightsides will take part in the Atlantic Dash on January 3, leaving from Lanzarote and finishing some six weeks later in Antigua having rowed 3,200-miles non-stop across the ocean.
The team – which is made up of turkey farmer Rod Adlington, farmer Guy Minshull, vet Anna Williams, and serving paratrooper Alex Perry – aim to raise £250,000 for Meningitis Now and head and neck cancer charity Get A-Head.
The challenge is in memory of Rod’s son Barney Adlington, who died from meningitis within 24 hours of being diagnosed when he was just three years old. Barney would have been 21 this year.
Rob Wigley, Chairman of The Wigley Group said: “This is a fantastic challenge and one we are delighted to lend our support to.
“It’s a voyage which will undoubtedly push the team to their limits, both mentally and physically, but will raise vital money for two worthwhile causes which mean a lot to Rod and the team.
“Supporting Get A-Head and their vital research to help save lives and understand rare cancers is a cause close to my heart too as my daughter Katie overcame thyroid cancer several years ago.
“We know Alex from our charitable work with The Parachute Regimental Association and The Red Devils display team as he was a former member, and will be following his and the team’s journey with great interest. We wish them all the very best of luck.”
The Brightsides take their name from Barney’s favourite song – Mr Brightside by The Killers.
During the journey, the team will row in two-hour shifts, 24 hours a day, sleeping only 90 minutes at a time – all while facing 40ft waves.
Alex Perry said: “It was great to hear a familiar name was sponsoring our Atlantic Row.
“I have had the pleasure of working with The Wigley Group at Parachute Regiment events and when I was a member of The Red Devils Army Parachute Display team at various events The Wigley Group organise in support of the Parachute Regiment Charity, Support Our Paras, who themselves have supported me with this endeavour.
“Thanks again to The Wigley Group, now we just have to row the Atlantic!"
To donate, visit www.givewheel.com/fundraising/1524/the-brightsides, or read more about the team’s challenge at www.thebrightsidesrow.com.