Final countdown to Frank's huge Atlantic challenge

Frank Rothwell will set off on his epic challenge this weekend

Oldham character Frank Rothwell is counting down to his extraordinary Atlantic challenge which begins this Saturday 12th December.

Frank, 70, is attempting to row 3000 miles across the Atlantic ocean and hopes to become the oldest person to complete the journey solo.

This Saturday, Frank will cast off from La Gomera, aiming to reach Antigua, and reuniting with his wife of 50 years, Judith, next Valentine’s Day.

After witnessing the devastating impact of dementia, Frank’s goal is to raise £1million for Alzheimer’s Research UK. To help his quest, Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation has agreed to generously match-fund the first £500,000 worth of donations.

Frank is self-funding the marathon trip, with all money raised going  directly to Alzheimer's Research UK.

He has raised £203K so far.
 
The epic journey is part of the annual managed challenge known as the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge.

Frank is the founder and Managing Director of Manchester Cabins in Hollinwood.  A spokesman for the company said Frank's personal experience of the effect of dementia is a driving force behind the challenge

"We know it’s been a tough year, but if you can, we would love you to sponsor him as he tries to raise 1 million pounds and awareness for this great cause.

"Please donate via Frank Rothwell’s JustGiving page and the kind people at Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation will generously double what you give.

"If you are unable to sponsor him at this time, then we would still love you for follow his progress and spur him on by following, liking, sharing, retweeting the platforms below. We are so proud of what Frank is doing that we want to tell everyone about it."

You will be able to follow Frank's progress on a tracking app called "Yellow Brick Races" which is free to download for Apple and Android devices.  Frank is labelled as "Alzheimer’s Research" on the app.

Frank sets off at 0930 Saturday 12th December.

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