BRITISH rowers are expected to smash the world record for crossing the North Atlantic this weekend by 15 days.

After 35 days at sea, the crew of the Naturally Best have only 265 miles to go until they arrive at Falmouth, in Cornwall.

Crewmember Nigel Morris, from Ingleby Barwick, near Stockton, spoke exclusively by satellite to The Northern Echo yesterday and said the team was determined to make it in this weekend.

The record for the west to east crossing is 55 days, but the four are set to make it home in an impressive 39 days.

"Wild horses are not going to keep us out," said the 42-year-old Tees docker.

"Everybody is happy and looking forward to seeing our families again.

"Now we know the end is in sight and we are in touching distance of finishing, nothing will stop us."

Mr Morris has been joined on the record attempt by George Rock, also from Ingleby Barwick, Rob Munslow, Steven Dawson and reserve rower Garry Smith.

They left Newfoundland, in Canada, on May 31 for the 2,100-mile journey to the South Coast of England.

They have been severely deprived of sleep and have hit two bad storms, but remain upbeat and in good humour as they complete the final leg of the voyage.

Mr Morris said: "We do not really realise what we are achieving.

"We are just four ordinary lads who have gone ahead with a project. The thing we are about to achieve is probably quite extraordinary, but we are just getting on and doing it."

Mr Dawson said that, optimistically, they could make it home by Saturday, but that Sunday was more realistic.

He said: "It does not seem like we have far to go, but it is a long way in a rowing boat.

"It is not exciting, just a bit strange. We have been out here for 34 days, just the four of us in a small boat. It is going to be quite weird.

"We will have a bit of a wobble when we get on land, but we can always correct that with a few beers."

Mr Morris said: "We are mentally and physically tired, but otherwise fine.

"We have all lost weight and we have all got a bit hairier.

"We are looking forward to a nice shower and a proper toilet -and a good night's sleep."