A Bradford Grammar School pupil is supporting her father's 3,000-mile charity ocean row.

Matthew Pitchforth of Halifax, who runs seven McDonald's restaurants across Yorkshire, is set to row across the Atlantic Ocean this December to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities UK.

His daughter, Olivia, a Year 7 pupil at Bradford Grammar School, is said to be proud but also "counting down the days until her dad's safe return".

On December 7, Mr Pitchforth and his teammates Nick Perks, Richard Hornsey, and Dean Fitzmaurice will begin their journey from the Canary Islands to Antigua, which is projected to take around 35 days in all.

The challenge, known as the World's Toughest Row, is expected to entail sleep deprivation, extreme weather, and "the physical toll of rowing more than 30,000 strokes per day".

Olivia, 12, said: "I’m very proud of what he’s doing, but also a bit worried.

"It’s hard not to be nervous when you think about the physical dangers he’ll face - like the sharks or the massive waves.

"I’ll miss him a lot, especially over Christmas when he’ll be so far away.

"But I know it’s for a great cause, and he wants to help families who are going through such tough times."

Mr Pitchforth and his teammates, together known as Team Graft, are hoping to raise £1 million for Ronald McDonald House Charities UK, which provides support to families with children in hospital.

Mr Pitchforth said: "It’s not easy being away from my own family, especially at Christmas, but the opportunity to help families going through unimaginable struggles makes every moment apart worth it.

"This challenge is about more than just completing the row - it’s about making a real difference to those in need."

Under the guidance of ocean rowing coach and world record-holder Duncan Roy, Mr Pitchforth and his teammates have undergone preparation for their feat.

Olivia and her younger brother William have been helping their dad prepare by organising his food supplies, which included baking protein-packed chocolate brownies and toffee flapjacks.

A special playlist has also been curated by Olivia to keep Team Graft motivated during their row.

Olivia's mum, Stephanie, added: "There’s an emotional side to this for all of us, especially for the children, but we’re in this together, supporting [Mr Pitchforth] every step of the way."

To support Team Graft, please visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/worlds-toughest-row-rmhcuk