A RECORD-breaking adventurer from Herefordshire has set a new time for rowing across the Atlantic.

Leven Brown and his three crewmates have broken a century-long record for rowing from New York to the Scilly Isles.

The skipper from Stauntonon- Wye left the US on June 17 onboard the Artemis Investments.

They arrived in St Mary’s harbour just 43 days later - taking 11 days and 15 hours off a record set in 1896 by two Norwegians.

Mr Brown, aged 37, said the crew were exhausted but full of pride after completing the 3,200 mile voyage.

They were welcomed by flares and a large flotilla after returning to British soil around 4pm last Saturday (July 31).

“I’m absolutely over the moon, exhausted, elated and ecstatic to be here,” said Mr Brown to the welcome party.

"I'm very proud of the lads and everybody involved in the boat. I’m proud of the boat, she's taken a hammering."

That “hammering” meant gale force winds, massive waves and two capsizes, not to mention close calls with tankers.

The crew – consisting of Leven Brown, a Scot, an Irishman and a Faroese - also suffered food poisoning after snacking on chocolate at the halfway mark.

The 23ft vessel was also followed by dolphins and passed the Queen Mary 2 during its transatlantic crossing.

George Harbo and Frank Samuelsen held the previous record for 114 years after making the crossing in 55 days.

The current holders attempted two earlier crossings in June but were forced back due to a storm.

Leven said his rowing crew was probably the most experienced team to attempt the Atlantic.

The skipper has rowed more than 10,000 miles and holds a number of records, including one for another Atlantic crossing.

Leven said he fancied some fish and chips on returning last weekend, and is now relaxing with his family.

Picture: Leven Brown, Ray Carroll, Don Lennox and Livar Nysted, crew of Artemis Investments have smashed a 114-year record for rowing across the Atlantic.

The crew travelled from New York to the Scilly Isles in 43 days.