Hero Frank in need of a final boost as he nears the end of his mega Atlantic charity row

Intrepid solo rower Frank Rothwell is nearing the end of a triumphant solo 3,000 mile row across the Atlantic raising money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

So far, Oldham businessman Frank has raised a more than £200,000 during his amazing mission, which began in December last year.

Now his son Luke has issued an emotional appeal in support of his father, the co-owner and chairman of Latics.

Luke says: "Frank needs a boost!

“He has been away a very long time.

"He set off on December 13, before most of us had done our Christmas shopping.

“It has been a completely different challenge this time. Many times more difficult.

"The conditions have been extremely tough and he has capsized three times.

"He was thrown overboard.

"If he hadn't been on a lanyard he would have died.

"Not that we needed reminding how potentially dangerous this challenge is.

“The trade winds and currents established for thousands of years, have been absent.

“If the wind isn't coming from between North East and South East he has to go on para-anchor - basically a huge parachute that sits in the water and acts as an anchor.

“Dad has been on para-anchor for over three days and been pushed backwards by the wind and current.

"This obviously eats away at morale and the reason I'm calling for a 'boost'.

“Ultimately he is doing this for all our families and friends because we are all impacted by Alzheimer’s.

"The money raised will help ‘Find a Cure’.

“The word ‘proud’ isn't strong enough, however, there has been many times when, as a family, we would have preferred him home.

“Tragically a gentleman, who was on a boat of four, had a heart attack and died.

"I can't imagine how traumatic that was.

"Remember it is only 14 months since Dad had open heart surgery and his aorta replaced.

“Shortly after this tragic news, we had nearly 48 hours without contact.

"His boat wasn't moving as expected. The worry was all consuming.

"The thoughts and possible scenarios were upsetting.

“There is no support boat he is doing this completely unassisted.

“His total is currently more than £220,000 which is incredible - it would be great for him to hit £250,000 before he arrives in Antiqua.

“Last time he raised an amazing £1.1m, but this time he doesn’t have nationwide television coverage.

"Let's try our best to get closer to it.

“Currently the best guess is he will make land on Valentine’s day... the old romantic. A week on Wednesday.

“Please forward this message on to all your family and friends to give the total and Dad a timely boost."

And you can hear regular reports on Oldham Community Radio 99.7fm, who are in regular touch with Frank and his family.

“Dad is great at most things, but technology is a weakness and unfortunately he is unable to send videos back," added Luke.

”Thank you for all your support, it has been incredible and we tell him every time we speak about the overwhelming volume of your good wishes.

"We have to stop because it makes him cry!"

You can hear regular exclusive reports on Oldham Community Radio 99.7fm who are in regular touch with Frank  and his family and are driving the 'FOLLOW FRANK' campaign.

To donate to Frank's wonderful cause, please click the link here

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