Matthew Mackaness and Charlie Marlow, both 26, launched their boat with the help of Scarborough Rowing Club in the town's South Bay yesterday, and were cheered on by staff and pupils from Bramcote.

In December they will begin their epic journey in La Gomera in the Canary Islands, sailing west and hoping to cross the finish line in Antigua, in the Caribbean, next January.

Mr Mackaness, a chartered surveyor, and Mr Marlow, a solicitor, who both live in London, are hoping to raise £50,000 for Brain Tumour UK and Shrewsbury House youth centre.

They chose to support Brain Tumour UK as during their training they have got to know Yorkshire county cricketer Simon Guy, who underwent surgery on his brain in February this year.

Bramcote teacher Peter Wilkinson, who taught Matthew, said: "What they're doing is absolutely fantastic – it shows such dedication.

"When he was here he was always a very keen and enthusiastic lad. He threw himself wholeheartedly into everything he did."

The Atlantic Rowing Race has been described as "the toughest endurance race in the world". Past competitors have faced hurricanes, tropical storms, shark attacks, multiple capsizes and dramatic rescues.

Mr Mackaness said: "I'm absolutely determined to complete the challenge and can't wait to arrive on the beach in Antigua!"

Find out more at www.atlanticrow.com.