BRADFORD'S intrepid rowers have gone into the new year and decade maintaining their third position in the pairs and 20th overall in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.

A distance of 1,273 nautical miles covered means Chris Nicholl and James Tordoff are fast approaching the halfway point which will be a huge milestone for the Hell Oar High Water duo from Idle.

In Facebook posts their support team say they have experienced a whale, and a pod of inquisitive dolphins, including babies which they managed to capture on camera. "It gave them a huge lift."

In addition they have seen some incredible night skies, including stars in a range of colours and beautiful sunsets.

The weather is hot during the day and they are still adjusting their shift pattern to get the most out of it.

"They are looking after themselves and the boat, pushing hard to get to halfway - then the countdown is on to Antigua!"