Kayak man beats Atlantic challenge

Peter Bray was "elated" after finishing the transatlantic crossing

A south Wales man who set out to cross the Atlantic single-handed in a kayak has finally achieved his goal.

After a 3,000 mile journey he arrived on the West Coast of Ireland on Wednesday.

His first attempt failed

Peter Bray - a 44-year-old outdoor pursuits instructor from Pencoed College in Bridgend - has spent 75 days battling against storms and rough seas in his 24ft craft.

The former member of the British Army's Special Air Service Boat Trooper is aiming to raise £100,000 for two children's hospices.

Mr Bray had been due to paddle into Killybegs but ended up on the other side of Donegal bay after losing radio contact with his support team on Tuesday evening.

A helicopter search was launched on Wednesday evening but Mr Bray was finally spotted by a fishing boat off County Mayo.

It's been the worst 75 days of my life, I've been so worried about him, it's just wonderful to have him back safe and sound

Florence Bray

He was flown to Killybegs where he was reunited with his friends and family.

His mother Florence Bray said: "I'm so proud of him. It's been the worst 75 days of my life, I've been so worried about him, it's just wonderful to have him back safe and sound."

This was Mr Bray's second attempt at crossing the Atlantic in his kayak.

The first attempted ended last year after his craft capsized and he spent more than 30 hours stranded in waters of the North Atlantic.

But determined to complete the challenge Mr Bray began his second attempt on the 23 June when he set out from Newfoundland, Canada.

Difficulties

During the crossing he encountered numerous troubles, including eight storms, damage to the watertight seal of his cabin and a lost anchor.

Mr Bray said tonight he was "elated" to have succeeded in his transatlantic crossing.

The designer of the kayak which made the historic crossing, Rob Feloy said: "I'm ecstatic. I'm thrilled he's made it, but I was always confident that he would.

"When we knew two days ago just how close to shore he was, we knew he was going to get here.

"It was just a question of how long it would take for him to get the final few miles."