WANTED - volunteers to row a four-man boat across the Atlantic Ocean faster than anyone else in history.

A strong body and mind is required to face the mighty challenge of 33 days on the high seas.

Knowing a thing or two about survival techniques and navigation will also be a big bonus - oh, and there's the small matter of training for two to four hours every day for six months. Any takers?

Poole firefighter Mark Stubbs is searching for another seven exceptional people willing to step forward to take part in the record-breaking attempt.

He wants to have two teams to tackle the 3,000-mile voyage in both directions and set new record times for the crossings.

Wimps need not apply.

The former Goss Atlantic Challenge rower is looking for athletes with a high level of physical endurance, resourcefulness and perhaps a bit of boat-building experience.

"The right people will already have an impressive background in competitive endurance sports to show that they have the motivation and mind-set to tackle rowing the Atlantic," said Mark, 37.

The aim is to beat the record for both the west-to-east and east-to-west crossings.

A ten-strong team is being assembled with four taking part in the first row, and four in the second. Two others will train as standby replacements.

They are trying to beat the current 55-day record for the tough Nova Scotia - Plymouth route and also the fastest all-comers' rowing crossing, which was done by a team of 11 Frenchmen in 35 days.

Mark is aiming to set a new record of just 33 days in the row attempt next June.

Anyone who thinks they've got what it takes is asked to write with five reasons why they should be considered to Mark at mark@mstubbs.freeserve.co.uk.