Tay-to-Thames rowing effort abandoned at St Andrews

A four-man team who hoped to row non-stop from the Tay to the Thames have been forced to abandon their challenge.

They had set off on Friday morning from Broughty Ferry for what they expected to be a 10-day journey to Tower Bridge in London, but they made it only a little south of St Andrews when bad weather forced them back towards shore.

Although all four are safe and sound, their boat eventually grounded on rocks next to the slipway at Carnoustie sailing cluband was left with a hole in its hull.

Stewart Walker and Kenny Clarkson, both PE teachers at Harris Academy in Dundee, Dave Row from Meigle, Perthshire, and John Jakeman from England were hoping to raise £2500 for the Maggie’s cancer caring centres.

They said they were “absolutely devastated” at being forced to give up their challenge so soon but have promised to try again next year.

The Coastguard said: “Officers stood by to provide support to the crew who were safe and well. They provided lighting as the crew recovered the boat once the tide receded.

“Safety advice and education was given.”

For more on this story, see Monday’s Courier.