"A terrible loss" Frank’s Atlantic challenge tinged with sadness

Oldham’s remarkable solo Atlantic rower Frank Rothwell’s charity challenge has been tinged with personal sadness.

Because the man he describes as his ‘inspiration” for taking on his heroic task to raise a million pounds for Alzheimer’s Research UK, has died.

Roger Wheeldon, 62, Frank’s brother in law, who contracted Alzheimer’s three years ago, died last week.

Currently, Frank, at 70 the oldest rower in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge which began on December 12, is less than 500 nautical miles from final landfall.

And in a radio telephone call, the intrepid traveller, spoke with deep affection about the loss of his relative.

“Roger had Downs Syndrome but he was truly my inspiration. He’s the reason I took on the challenge. He battled Altzeimers... a really courageous man.

“He was full of life and he loved dancing. He is a terrible loss.”

And Frank revealed he had snapped one of his carbon fibre oars on his boat, Never to Old. “I was in strong seas,” he explained. “The oar got trapped under the boat and snapped. Luckily I have spares.

“But I managed to save it and I’ve told my wife, Judith, I’m going to put the oar over the fireplace as a souvenir,” he quipped.

Now with less than 500 nautical miles to reach his destination Frank is aiming to arrive at the sunshine island next Saturday where he will be reunited with his wife and “best mate” of 50 years, and their family.

“I always wanted to share Valentines Day with my wife,” he said.

“Im covering about 60 miles a day, helped by the sea which is bowling along at about four miles an hour, and some good winds are forecast,” he added.

His challenge has generated enthusiastic support and so far the £600,000 in donations means he has raised more than any other participant in the challenge.

The supporters generous contribution, and Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation’s doubling of donations of up to £500,000, Frank now has under £200,000 left to hit his £1 million target.

The family has decided to wait until Frank's arrival back home to hold Roger’s funeral, and they are welcoming donations to Frank's JustGiving page in lieu of flowers.

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