PUPILS in class two at High Bentham Primary School are following Atlantic rower Chris Martin as he traverses the ocean to raise money for prostate and breast cancer charities.

The youngsters have a vested interest in the rower, as he is the cousin of their class teacher Sue Marshall's husband.

They are able to follow his progress in the transatlantic rowing race on his "weblog" via the internet and send him e-mails.

"He capsized the other day, had to right the boat himself and then lost all his oars," explained Mrs Marshall. "He has James Cracknell's (coxless fours Olympic gold medallist) spare oars now and is half-way across."

Mrs Marshall said the class was now hoping to organise a fundraiser to support the charities Mr Martin is highlighting in his adventure.

He is taking part in the same event which James Cracknell and his rowing partner Ben Fogle have just completed in a creditable third place.

"The children are eagerly following the adventures of Chris, who has won gold for Britain in international rowing events," added Mrs Marshall. "He is one of just two oarsmen in the race rowing the Atlantic solo, with the others competing as doubles or fours.

"The children are captivated by his adventure because it is a real story with daily updates. It is amazing that we can send e-mails to this little boat in the middle of the Atlantic and that he can respond.

"It has brought geography to life for the children and inspired their writing. They have even done Chris Martin maths lessons on time and distance."

Picture by Stephen Garnett shows Joel Wynns, William Jackson, Aidan Gill, Amy Lawson and Anna Shaw. 4/6/10.