TWO rowers hoping to break a world record for crossing the Atlantic have displayed their boat in Bexhill for the final time before the epic voyage.

Phil McCorry, 29, and Dan Renner, 26, welcomed more than 200 people to view the Bexhill College Endeavour and write personal messages on the cabin walls before it was taken to the starting point in the Canary Islands.

Mr McCorry, of Mayo Rise, Bexhill, described a mix of emotions about the trip, which begins on November 8.

He said: “I’m excited but obviously apprehensive and nervous at the same time.

“I think it’s a life-changing experience for me and Dan.”

The pair will attempt the 3,000 mile journey in fewer than 41 days to beat the current record for a team of two.

For Mr McCorry it would be his second world record, after a 68-day crossing of the Indian Ocean in 2009 as part of a team of four, including his brother Nick.

Mr Renner, a bricklayer, of Hever Crescent, Bexhill, said: “I’m mainly looking forward to not having to go to work for a couple of months, switch the old brain off and do rowing.”

They have been asking people to donate £10 to have their names printed on the side of the boat as well as make donations to raise money for St Mary’s Special Needs School in Bexhill.

Emma Bourne, development manager at St Mary’s, said: “The funds being raised for St Mary’s as a result of the Atlantic Challenge make a real difference to the lives of our young people.

“We wish Phil and Dan a safe journey, and look forward to welcoming them home.”

The pair have raised more than £6,000 for St Mary’s so far and have 370 names on the boat, which also includes sponsorship by The Argus.

Geoff Dixon, shoreside manager of the trip, said: “We are so grateful for the support of Bexhill residents and businesses.”

See atlanticchallenge14.org to donate.