A charitable bunch of boys rowed the length of the Channel and back to raise money for a vital befriending scheme in Monmouthshire.

The group of 25 pupils from Monmouth School took to rowing machines at their boathouse on Friday, September 30, on behalf of Bridges Community Centre.

Rob Howe, Housemaster of Monmouth House, said: “Boys from Monmouth House completed a sponsored team challenge to raise money for our local Bridges Community Centre, specifically to assist them with their befriending programme. 

“This is an outreach programme to help people in Monmouthshire who might otherwise feel isolated. 

“It was a great team effort in which the boys rowed a total of 73,000 metres, equivalent to crossing from Dover to Calais and back. 

“All crew members received a certificate at the end from Head of House, Charlie Walker, and will also be awarded with a much coveted Mon House Charity Fundraiser trophy when they bring in their sponsorship money.  They hope to raise in excess of £500.”

Mark Walton, Centre Director at Bridges, added: “This is fantastic achievement, thank you to all the boys for their tremendous effort.”