AN INTREPID septet from the Isle of Wight have taken on a challenge to row the distance from their home in Alverstone to John O'Groats in Scotland.

The 735-mile pilgrimage is the idea of Reece Payne, and will include a seven-strong team ranging from eight months to 93 years in age — each with slightly different roles.

Reece said: "Myself, my partner Carlie and her parents Jane and Paul are undertaking the charity row and updating our funding page daily.

"As a family, we are trying to raise money for NHS charities by dividing the challenge between us.

"We were in protective isolation as I have been undergoing treatment for cancer over the past 18 months.

"Carlie is a paediatric intensive care nurse on maternity leave, looking after our eight month old daughter, Olivia.

"The 12-week duration of our efforts represents the amount of time we will be isolated due to Covid-19. Any donations would be incredibly gratefully received."

The team consists of Reece and Carlie, their daughter Olivia, Carlie's parents Jane and Paul, Carlie's sister Jodie, and the 'grand overseer' Jeune, 93, who is taking on Mr Motivator duties.

The family has already raised £2,000. To donate, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/row4nhs