Record attempt rowers half-way on 2,302-mile journey

Allan Lipp and Mhairi Ross spent two years preparing for their venture

A Scottish couple hoping to become the first mixed pair to circumnavigate the UK mainland in a rowing boat unsupported have reached the half-way stage in their venture.

Allan Lipp, who is coxswain mechanic at Wick RNLI, and his partner Mhairi Ross, a paramedic who is also a volunteer lifeboat crew member, set off on their journey from Wick 52 days ago.

Neither of them have a background in rowing, but spent two years preparing for the 2,302-mile (3,706km) row.

They passed Land's End in Cornwall earlier this week.

Mr Lipp said: “We are delighted to have passed the half-way point.

"The journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but the unwavering and phenomenal support we’ve received keeps us going.”

Ms Ross added: "The support from friends, family, and everyone following us has kept us going during the toughest of times."

The row is raising money for the RNLI and Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance.

To complete the attempt unsupported the couple must carry all the food they need, and they cannot come ashore or even tie up in a harbour.

They can seek shelter and drop anchor in bad weather.

The couple had hoped to complete the feat in 60 days.