AN Army doctor based at Bovington is hoping to set a new world record for circumnavigating the coast of Great Britain.

Captain Nick Dennison, based at Bovington Camp, has set off with fellow Army doctor, Captain Hamish Reid, on a gruelling trip expected to last 45 days.

They are hoping to break the record by becoming the first pair to complete the 2,100-mile journey unsupported and without returning to land to sleep.

Mr Dennison will be rowing with Mr Reid for 20 hours a day and resting at anchor to sleep.

The pair crossed the Irish Sea in the last few days and are currently sheltering from the wind off Wexford, Ireland.

Mr Dennison, 28, who is originally from Bristol, looks after staff and the phase two Royal Armoured Corps recruits at Bovington.

He said: “In order to complete the circumnavigation we need to be well versed in a variety of methods of navigation – everything from GPS to navigating by dead-reckoning.

“We aim to set a competitive world record and in order to do this our route and navigation through the inshore waters and tides must be excellent.”

To achieve this the pair have undertaken sea-survival courses.

“Safety is paramount so well practised safety drills and mastery of radio procedure are vital in our preparation,” Mr Dennison added.

The two doctors are taking on the challenge in their 24ft ocean going rowing boat ‘Komale’ taking on high seas, fierce winds and strong tides.

They are alternating between rowing two hours on and two hours off in open seas.

The officers expect to use up 8,000 calories a day and are undertaking scientific research into their calorific demands.

They aim to provide an insight into nutritional demands during prolonged exertion and physical degradation.

Mr Reid, also 28, is originally from the Isle of Wight and is based with 22 Royal Engineer Regiment at Tidworth Camp, Wiltshire.

He said: “The row demands prolonged physical endurance and in order to complete it we will have to achieve an elite level of fitness.

“We’ve had to condition our bodies to deal with fatigue, discomfort and prolonged exertion.

“Courage, discipline and integrity are fundamental to the success of this challenge.

“The race puts us in situations we have not experienced before and we shall need to dig deep into our mental reserves to maintain our efforts, uphold these standards and, in the worst case, survive.”

The two officers are aiming to raise £20,000 for both the Army Benevolent Fund and Help for Heroes.

To donate visit www.justgiving. com/rowforheroes or you can also make a £3 donation by texting “ROW” to 84424.

You will also be charged your usual text rate.