RAISING money for a global water charity will be the fuel for a solo sailing mission across the Atlantic Ocean for a Wem businessman.

James Mansell, managing director and owner of Clear Solutions, based on the Wem Industrial Estate, will be taking part in the Original Single-handed Transatlantic Race (OSTAR) to raise money for WaterAid and will sail roughly 3,000 nautical miles from Plymouth to Newport, Rhode Island.

The race begins on Sunday, May 15 and will continue non-stop until he reaches the US.

James said his cause would help him to continue the challenge despite the physical and mental fatigue he expects to experience.

He added: "With a love of water sports from a young age and having undertaken various double-handed races around the world, I am now looking forward not only to the challenge of racing solo.

"But also to completing this challenge in support of WaterAid and raising as much money as possible for them along the way.

"It will really help motivate me when I am both physically and mentally tired, far from land in the middle of the wild Atlantic and encourage me to keep pushing."

James expects to face several hazards including storms, fog, shipping vessels and icebergs.

Jamie Cliffe, Clear Solutions sales director, said the company fully supported him.

He added: "We, at Clear Solutions, are incredibly impressed at the massive challenge James is undertaking.

"It will be an exhilarating and gruelling experience, and we are excited to help him in his goal to raise money for WaterAid."

According to Water Aid, one in 10 people lack access to clean water globably and one in five lack private and functioning toilet facilities.

Corinne Stone, senior community and events office for WaterAid, thanked James for raising funds and awareness.

She said: "It’s very inspiring to see James Mansell take on this epic challenge for WaterAid.

"It not only raises awareness of our cause but also raises vital funds to help bring clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene to communities around the world.

"We’d like to thank James for his commitment and wish him luck in the race.

"We are all looking forward to following his journey."

To track James' journey visit Clear Solutions' LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clear-solutions-international-ltd/

You can support James' challenge and donate to WaterAid by going to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/clearsolutionswateraid