Adventurer sets off for Rockall record 4/6/14
Adventurer Nick Hancock is setting off for Rockall today (Wed) where he is hoping to set a new occupation record.
If the Edinburgh-
A previous attempt last year ended after rough seas prevented him from landing.
Nick hopes to spend 60 days on the rock, about 260 miles west of the Outer Hebrides. That would mean mean smashing two endurance records for the longest solo occupation of the rock and its longest occupation in history.
The motor cruise boat Orca III, operated by tourism operator Kilda Cruises, left Leverburgh in South Harris this afternoon (Wed) under the command of experienced yacht skipper Angus Smith. They should arrive at the rock on Thursday morning and Capt Smith will make the decision whether it is safe for Nick to attempt a landing.
If so, Nick will have to single-
The current occupation record is 42 days set by three Greenpeace campaigners in 1997.
The 40-
While on Rockall, Nick, 39, will live in a converted 8ft yellow water tank which he will have to winch onto the rock. It will be powered by a small wind turbine and solar panels for charging his satellite communications.
He will live on Hall's Ledge, a small flatter part, that is just 11ft by 4ft. Occasionally, he will scramble up to the summit for exercise. His survival items include army rations.
Nick said: "I will be keeping in touch with my wife Pamela and my son Freddie, who is two, through Skype. I will also be in regular voice and text contact with my support team on the mainland."
Nick is hoping to raise £10,000 for Help The Heroes and he has asked for the public to support his aim by donating through: www.justgiving.com/rockallsolo