A husband and wife team who are preparing to row across the Atlantic Ocean welcomed a special visitor for one of their training sessions.

The Mayor of Charnwood, Cllr Dr Julie Bradshaw MBE, joined Jooles and Ian Paillin-Dean aboard their boat during preparations on the River Soar.

The intrepid pair, known as Stronger Twogether, will be taking on the ‘World’s Toughest Row’ starting this December. The huge challenge involves rowing 3,000 miles and battling waves up to 30 feet high.

Mayor Julie is an endurance swimmer and holds many swimming world records, including a Butterfly Solo Swim of the English Channel.

“It was fantastic to meet Jooles and Ian and to wish them all the very best for their remarkable rowing challenge,”

said Mayor Julie, who was accompanied by Mayoress Julie Ellerbeck. 
 

“It’s great that they’re raising money for charity, as supporting good causes is very close to my heart,”

added Mayor Julie.

“My advice for the challenge would be to make sure your mind is in the right place and have the focus and determination to succeed. Believe you can do it and keep pulling those oars even when the going gets tough.”

The couple, who live in Ratcliffe-On-Soar, are aiming to become the fastest mixed pair to ever complete the challenge, while also raising money for the LOROS hospice charity and the Rivers Trust.

Jooles said:

“It was great to show the Mayor and Mayoress our boat, Polly, and receive their support. Rowing the Atlantic is something we’ve always dreamt of doing. It really is the ultimate adventure.”

Jooles and Ian are still seeking sponsorship after raising two-thirds of their £100,000 target. Their costs include race fees, communications equipment and essential supplies.

Added Ian:

“Getting the right nutrition will be essential and we’re keen to find a snack partner who can provide easily edible and high-calorie products. Snack packs of dried fruit would be really useful.”

You can sponsor the pair and follow their progress at strongertwogether.co.uk ; the direct link to their sponsorship page is: Stronger Twogether - World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic 2025 - Crowdfunding - GiveWheel