A HAMPSHIRE sailor touched by the story of a homeless man who froze to death has rowed 170 miles in a bid to help people on the street this Christmas. 

Adam “Griff” Griffiths, an engineering technician, covered the equivalent distance from HMS Sultan, Gosport, to his home in Uttoxeter in aid of The Salvation Army (SA) and The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC).

Despite only deciding to take on the row-a-thon just days before setting off the 32-year-old set himself a target of just nine days to complete the row-a-thon challenge at Sultan’s Sports and Recreation Centre, where he was cheered on by his colleagues and the centre’s Physical Training Instructors (PTI).

So far Adam has raised more than £700 and is hoping Daily Echo readers will help him with the last leg of his fundraising mission to reach his £1,000 target before January 15.

The Royal Navy work hard to ensure, at all times, its personnel remain fit to fight and, as a fitness enthusiast, Adam has proved he had all the grit and determination required to succeed, rowing early mornings and evenings in his spare time, he covered an average of 19 miles a day.

Adam said: “I thought there must be something I can do to help other vulnerable people; that was on the Tuesday, and by the Saturday I’d started fundraising by rowing the distance home.”

Adam added he chose to support the SA as they were really well known for their work with the homeless and lonely, especially at Christmas while the RNRMC did a lot of excellent work supporting naval personnel, their families and veterans.

“I’m fully aware I can’t change the world on my own but with everyone’s help and donations we can certainly make a difference,” he said.

Leading PTI James Johnson said: “I think it’s an incredible endurance achievement - 170 miles is a long way in a car let alone on a rower. I think it’s a very impressive feat and he’s done the Naval Service proud.”

If you can help visit virginmoneygiving.com/AdamGriffiths84 to donate to help Adam reach his target of £1,000.