A team of rowers from Tenby have entered one of the toughest rowing races in the world in order to raise funds for the Paul Sartori Foundation.

The Celtic Challenge takes place in May this year and is a huge test of rowing endurance. Teams row from Arklow in Ireland to Aberystwyth, a distance of approximately 90 nautical miles.

In difficult weather conditions, the race can take over 20 hours to complete in a Celtic Longboat. For this reason, the mixed team of 12 rowers from Tenby Sea Rowing Club are having to balance demanding training schedules with jobs and family commitments. Nick Tebbutt, a local paramedic and one of the team's most experienced rowers, commented: "This great challenge appeals to us as a huge test of rowing stamina and determination, but above all else we want to use it as a springboard to raise as much money as possible for a great local charity." The team are all seeking individual sponsorship, but are also appealing for local companies and organisations to help support their entry. Already backing the team's efforts are Tenby businesses - Tenby House Hotel and Fiveways Garage.

Support has also come from across Pembrokeshire, with Celtic Diving from Goodwick supplying the support boat that the team needs for the race.

Lorna Johns, director of the Paul Sartori Foundation, said: "We are always very grateful when people within Pembrokeshire take on challenges to raise funds for the foundation. The Celtic Challenge sounds like a big huge test to me and I hope that sponsors respond generously."

Companies and organisations that sponsor the team are set to benefit from the substantial media coverage of the event. Additionally, the team are willing to make presentations about their experiences in the race or to invite sponsors along for a row through the Tenby surf!

Potential sponsors should e-mail - [email protected]">[email protected] or call Mike Ashbridge on 07810 305542.