A HAMPSHIRE man is rowing across one of the biggest oceans on Earth to raise money for injured war veterans and people with a genetic disorder.

Theo Jones, from Alresford, is crossing the Atlantic with Shane Chadwick in a gruelling two-month challenge.

The 27-year-old, whose day job is operating million-pound yachts for royalty and high-flying businesspeople, is using his expertise in a bid to raise £100,000 for two charities.

The Not Forgotten Association provides recreation for wounded veterans, while Think Fragile X raises awareness of Fragile X Syndrome, which causes intellectual and physical disabilities.

More people have been into space than rowed the Atlantic, but 30 boats are taking on the Talisker Whisky Challenge.

Team Hesco set off from Tenerife days before Christmas and are travelling thousands of miles non-stop, taking two-hour shifts on the oars.

They hope to arrive in Antigua in time for Theo’s birthday on February 10.

Mum Charmian Jones, said: “He wanted to do it when he was 18 – but at 18 we thought it was just not on! He was probably too immature then and had all the risk.

“Theo and Shane have been really good and ready for 18 months because, apart from buying all the equipment and getting it up to scratch they’ve had to get the training.”

Last week the pair were set back around 14 miles as a major storm forced them backwards at around 30 knots, or 34mph.

At the time of writing Theo and Shane were in the main pack behind two British frontrunners. Their progress can be tracked on a live map.

“It does make you worry because you can’t do anything but look at it!” Ms Jones said.

To donate or to find out more about the challenge, visit teamhesco.com.