Swindon Borough Council have come on board Norman Butler's attempt to row the Atlantic by giving him a Cross Training Pass which allows unlimited opportunity to train in any of the borough's lifestyle centres, swim or take fitness classes.

Norman from Westlea and team mate Chris Higgins from Gloucester have entered the Ward Evans Atlantic rowing race in October 2001 aand have to raise £50,000 to cover the entry costs, which include the purchase of their boat in kit form. They have nearly completed the boat and plan to launch it in early May.

Once costs have been covered all sponsorship will be donated to the NSPCC. "We're building up business and community support," said Norman. "It is great that Swindon is backing me. The equipment in the Link gym is excellent; it will help me reach a peak of fitness."