There will be a mix of disappointment and relief after news that the 'Scilly Boys' challenge came to an abrupt end when their 29ft boat capsized during an attempt to row the Atlantic for charities including the RNLI's Train One campaign, and Cornwall Air Ambulance.

Pirates 2nd team captain Wayne Davey, along with Tim Garratt, Chris Jenkins and Joby Newton, were attempting to row 3,100 nautical miles from New York to Bishop Rock and beat the record for a four-person crew of 55 days and 13 hours.

After 2 weeks at sea and 650 miles into their journey, at 1am in darkness, high winds, poor visibility and 420 miles from the nearest land, the 4 Cornish rowers sent out a distress call to Falmouth Coastguard.

Within moments an international rescue mission swung into action, involving Cornish & US coastguards, a Hercules aircraft and the merchant ship Gulf Grace.

The Gulf Grace altered course to the last-known position of the rowers, whilst the Hercules plane was scrambled. The Hercules found the rowers in a liferaft from where they were soon rescued by the Gulf Grace which is due in Amsterdam next Sunday.

The disappointment is that the elements had conspired against them, but also immense relief and good news to hear that all four crew were rescued. Euan Rodger, on behalf of key sponsors Tresco Estate, commented: "Their challenge had captured the imagination of the world."

It is clear that Chris and paramedic Wayne's knowledge and experience gained as RNLI crew and the sea survival training in preparation for the event, helped them enormously and all will be delighted to hear that they emerged from the ordeal safe and sound. A fully deserved, rousing reception awaits them on their return.

Only six crossings have been made west to east over the past 100 years.

Transatlantic Challenge - Rowing Home