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Surrey vet achieves rowing Guinness World Record
The research team rowed 2,000 miles in just 50 days.
Hannah Davies’ achievement formed part of her research into water pollution.

A veterinary surgeon from the University of Surrey has achieved a Guinness World Record, while simultaneously collecting data on underwater noise pollution.

Hannah Davies, a senior lecturer in veterinary clinical practice, helped record the fastest time for a mixed team to row unsupported around Great Britain.

The team, consisting of Dr Davies, skipper Patrick Deacon, Adam Ravenscroft, Joe Benson, Lia Evans and Daisy Lucker, successfully rowed over 2,000 miles in just 50 days.

They faced challenging rowing conditions throughout, including headwinds for most of the journey.

The team achieved the Guinness World Record as part of a project to record data from Great Britain’s waters. Dr Davies sought to collect data on underwater man-made sound, microplastic pollution, water temperature, salinity and biodiversity.

Sound is important in underwater ecosystems, since it travels much further underwater. Marine species use it to communicate, hunt, find a mate, navigate and avoid predators.

However, the noise caused by human activity, such as from boats and machinery, can disrupt this communication. This can lead to marine animals becoming lost, failing to find mates and becoming vulnerable to predators.

As well as collecting vital data for their investigation, the team has also been raising money to combat water pollution. So far, over £7,000 has been raised for the charity Surfers Against Sewage.

Dr Davies said: “I am extremely proud to have broken the Guinness World Record. As a team, we faced many difficulties on our journey.

“However, there were so many positives. This was a once-in-a-lifetime achievement, and I felt so privileged to see a lot of amazing wildlife, including minke whales on the east coast of Scotland and pods of dolphins on the south coast of England and the east coast of Ireland.

“This was not only a truly memorable experience, but we were able to collect vital data that will help support research on the state of our oceans and the conditions of our coastline.”

Donations can still be made to Surfers Against Sewage through the team’s JustGiving page.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.