Former SAS soldier from Hereford arrives back on dry land after Atlantic rowing challenge

A former SAS soldier from Herefordshire has claimed a new world record for rowing across the Atlantic solo using only the stars to guide him.

Ian Rivers from Hereford completed the 3,100 nautical mile voyage in 85 days and without GPS for navigation.

It is the first time a solo unsupported rower has ever crossed the Atlantic using the Northern Route.

He is aiming to raise £500,000 for the SAS Regimental Association’s Sentinels programme, a mental health initiative, and St Michael’s Hospice in Herefordshire.

The 55-year-old left New York on May 31 and reached the Isles of Scilly yesterday.