A ROWING team will face the ultimate challenge by crossing the Atlantic in the hopes to raise money for a very charitable cause.

Ben Ajayi-Obe from Bracknell, alongside his three teammates will row a 3,000 mile journey from the Canaries to Antigua in a 28 foot boat.

The ex-student from Garth Hill College hopes to raise £60,000 for two Multiple Sclerosis (MS) charities including the Berkshire MS Therapy Centre where Bens mother Rose visits weekly to manage her condition.

Ben said: "My mum Rose has lived with MS for 18 years. Everyday is a frustrating struggle, yet she overcomes her symptoms with sheer determination and grit.

The centre is a constant rock for those whose lives have been turned upside down, no number could ever reflect the real value you bring to the MS community."

The school presented a cheque of £859.76 to The Berkshire MS Therapy centre.

Garth Hill College Principal, Keith Grainger said: "The college has a strong sense of community in its widest sense so when Ben contacted us there was no question that we would support him.

"Our pupils have been inspired by Ben's row and will be tracking the teams progress as they undertake this incredible challenge."

The challenge, #row4rose begins on Wednesday, December 12 and aims to raise international awareness for the incurable neurological disease.

Samantha Harper, fundraising manager said: "The Atlantic challenge has been years in the making and now we are so close it hardly seems real. It is going to take every bit of will power, determination and strength they have. Luckily, these guys do now know the word 'quit'.

"Their lives have revolved around training and we are in awe of their tenacity. We are thrilled they have decided to support the centre. With no NHS funding, the money they will raise will allow us to make sure that local people with MS get the support they need."