One particular reason attracts Staff Sergeant Ben Fouracre to this transatlantic crossing – escape from the drill square. “It’s my weak point, I’m afraid, where I’m renowned for my lack of prowess!”

Mercifully, a quick glance at his Army career since joining up at sixteen suggests that this is the only blot in his copybook. Ben’s qualified as an Army Diver, Skiing Instructor, Construction Plant Manager and a Safety Supervisor. That’s in addition to completing the All Arms Commando Course in 1989 (another protégé of instructor Mark Waterson) and several mountain marathons.

“It’s my competitive streak,” admits Ben, “tempered by being a good team player. Those who know me would say I also tend to have a relaxed attitude towards most things, to which I reply, ‘Yes, but I get things done!’

“Taking part in the Shepherds Ocean Fours Rowing Race is one of those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities which is a little bit different, and ultimately life-changing. A real attraction for me will be the teamwork involved, which will be the key to success. I’ve worked with Pete, Charlie and Mark before; that counts for a lot of mutual respect. The four of us in a team together will be an awesome experience.

“At the heart of it is raising awareness and funds for the Meningitis Trust, a fantastically good cause,” Ben points out.

Asked about difficulties during the race, Ben cites bad weather and the strain of getting used to a confined space. Of these, it’s the latter he’s more concerned about. “I’ve trained and worked in enough different weather conditions around the world to be able to shrug off most of what the planet can throw at us,” he muses, “yet very little that happens in the mess can prepare the four of us for sharing a space the size of a small bathroom for several weeks, non-stop.

“Seeing the family, eating a decent meal, running a hot bath, drinking a cold beer and sleeping in a large bed will be what I’ll most look forward to when we reach Falmouth. And if we’re first to cross that line, then I might just make it two beers!”