Two veterans, dubbed the 'Grandfathers of the Atlantic', have broken a world record by becoming the oldest duo ever to row across the great ocean - raising funds for a Kent charity in the process.

Former paratroopers Neil Young and Peter Ketley, boasting a combined age of 123, have completed their 3,000-mile nautical challenge in 63 days and 22 minutes - despite having no previous rowing experience.

The friends of 40 years, whose service spans tours of Northern Ireland and the Falklands, rowed for 24 hours a day in two-hour shifts from La Gomera in the Canary Islands, to Antigua in the Caribbean, and have raised £30,000 for worthy causes, including military charity Royal British Legion Industries, based in Aylesford.

The RBLI, which is celebrating its 100th year in 2019, is home to a number of war veterans, many of them with injuries and disabilities, and provides them with support they need as well as a route back into sustainable employment.

The money will go to support the charity's recently-announced plans for a Centenary Village – a £14m development of specially-adapted accommodation for injured ex-service personnel with an on-site community centre, which the charity says will set them up for another 100 years of veteran care.

Mr Ketley said the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge was "an incredibly difficult, but ultimately rewarding experience".

He added: "Needless to say there were challenging times battling headwinds, significant waves and sore bodies, but knowing we were helping people in desperate need of support certainly perked us up at the low points.”

Mr Young said: “We’re incredibly proud to be able to play a role in supporting Royal British Legion Industries in what is the most important year in their history – and we very much look forward to seeing how they will improve the lives of the Armed Forces veterans with the funds raised.”

The pair were inspired to fundraise for RBLI after visiting the charity’s headquarters and its social enterprise factory Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (BBMC) last year.

They plan to return and celebrate their record-breaking achievement with the veterans who spurred them on.

Throughout their journey they have also received the backing of celebrities including football manager and King of the Jungle, Harry Redknapp.

Lisa Farmer, director of strategic development at RBLI, said: “We’ve followed the monumental journey of Neil and Peter over the last 63 days and we’re very proud to have them among our supporters.

“Breaking the world record and raising such a substantial amount is testament to their unwavering bravery and support for their fellow veterans.

“The whole team here is incredibly proud of their efforts. We were with them every step of the way and we very much look forward to welcoming them back to our Aylesford village on their return to the UK.”

The Grandads are continuing to fundraise for RBLI, Dreams Come True and Support Our Paras.

Click here to support them after their record-breaking journey.