Portishead couple row length of English Channel to raise money for Trussel Trust during coronavirus crisis
A couple from the West Country will be rowing the English Channel to raise money for the Trussel Trust - on a rowing machine in their living room.
Bella Wilson and Sam Charman are making use of their time staying at home during the coronavirus lockdown to support the food bank charity.
The pair row for Portishead Pilot Gig Club, and had been in training for the World Championships in the Isles of Scilly in May.
When it was announced that the competition was cancelled to slow the spread of coronavirus, the couple got their heads together to come up with a way to make sure their hard work hadn't gone to waste.
32-year-old Bella is a teacher at Broadoak Academy in Weston-super-Mare, and says that having first-hand experience of helping families in need inspired her to take on the challenge.She is still working with the school, delivering free school meals to those struggling during the crisis.
The pair hope to complete the 33km row in about three hours, taking turns on the machine to reach the finish line.
Sam, who recently won male rower of the year for his Portishead club, says the challenges they'll face during the domestic row will be less physically demanding but will probably take more of a mental toll.