Gloucestershire-based adventurer, Charlie Martell is aiming for a Guinness world record as he embarks on his latest challenge.

His aim is to become the first person to row unaided across the North Pacific, land to land, whilst raising money for charity along the way.

He sets off from Choshi in Japan today, April 23 in his 21ft rowing boat, called Blossom, with only oar-power to get him more than 5,083 miles across the biggest ocean on the planet to the western seaboard of the USA, and 180 days worth of food.

He will have to row at 18 strokes per minute for a minimum 12 hours per day to make his destination and will need 5,000 calories per day.

Raging Bull Sportswear (RBS) has agreed to sponsor Charlie with a range of high performance clothing to kit him out on this gruelling six month journey, facing all that the elements throw at him.

Andy Deacon, RBS sales manager and former Gloucester Rugby prop, said: "It was incredibly inspiring to meet Charlie at his home near my office in Gloucestershire. I am humbled that we can support him with waterproof jackets, tee shirts, and polos for the row.

"Charlie will of course loose a huge amount of weight along the way so we have provided clothing in different sizes to allow for this. Good luck in your world record adventure."

Phil Vickery MBE DL, company founder and world cup winner, said: "What an amazing physical challenge by this former Royal Engineer Commando.

"All of us at Raging Bull wish him well and we will follow his journey at each stage. I admire his strength in raising awareness for mental health and look forward to a safe return and successful world record gain"

Charlie is aiming to raise £100,000 for three charities: Give them a Sporting Chance, Veterans in Action and The VC Gallery.