GP and team bid to row across the Atlantic

GP Jess Harvey, Gary Fletcher and Phil Evans will travel to San Sebastian in December 2026 to take part in the race

A GP from Shropshire is planning to row across the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for charity.

Dr Jess Harvey, based at Much Wenlock and Cressage Medical Practice, is taking part in the World's Toughest Row with two others to raise awareness for the British Heart Foundation and Severn Hospice.

She said: "It's an incredible challenge, mentally and psychologically - as a trio we're committed to getting each other across the water safely."

Dr Harvey, builder Gary Fletcher and electrician Phil Evans, will travel to the start line at San Sebastian in La Gomera, Canary Islands, together in December 2026.

Dr Harvey said she met Mr Fletcher rowing at the Gym Mostyn rowing club based in Wrekin College, and teamed up with Mr Evans through a mutual friend.

The team have called themselves Wrekin Oarsome.

She said: "We all want to take on the challenge not just to see how far we can push our bodies and minds over 3,000 miles, but also to raise money for two very worthy charities.

"I think we've all been touched by heart disease, problems and issues - be it ourselves or our family - and there are too many tragic early deaths that we hope to try and prevent.

"We hope that we can, not only inspire others to believe anything is possible, no matter how large or small, but also to raise awareness and funds for these causes."

The trio are currently training and need a minimum of 120 hours experience in their boat, while searching for sponsors.