A WYRE Forest teenager is part of a four-man crew attempting to row the 240-mile long River Severn in just 10 days to raise money for charity.

The test of endurance is made all the more difficult for 18-year-old Scott Evans, of Worcester Road, Harvington, because he is surviving on only 60p a day.

The crew, which has "no previous rowing experience", is tackling Britain's longest river to help Tearfund, a key organisation in the Make Poverty History Campaign.

The gruelling 24Severn Challenge started on Monday from the river's source, at Mount Plynlimon, Wales, and, if successful, the crew will cross the finish line in Bristol, next Wednesday.

Cein and Tadhg McGillicuddy, 22 and 18 respectively, both former Kidderminster College students, join their cousin, Mr Evans, in the fibreglass dinghy, with 22-year-old James Hodges, from Essex making up the team.

They are calling for support from Wyre Forest people when they pass through the district - at Stourport and Bewdley - over this weekend.

Amateur boxer, Mr Evans, who hopes to turn professional in the future, said he took part because he "likes a challenge."

Speaking before setting off, he said: "I think it will be hard and I am not quite sure what to expect. Hopefully, my boxing training will mean I am fit enough to get through it."

Organiser, Cein McGillicuddy, hopes the journey will eventually raise a "four-figure sum".

Anyone wishing to sponsor the group can log onto the website www.24severn.co.uk