THEY'RE off, a team of army rowers have started their journey to Canada.

A team of 21 soldiers are rowing the 7,000km distance based at Station Hill.

The 26 Engineer Regiment will spend 30 hours raising cash for the Armed Forces Charity, the SSAFA.

Sergeant Chris McGregor, Royal Engineers, said: “We will be rowing non-stop throughout the night from Reading’s Station Hill to Canada to raise money for the Armed Forces charity SSAFA which has helped so many of our colleagues.

“Please come down and support our troops by donating or for a chat through our all-night rowing marathon.”

Members of the public who wish to support are encouraged by the troops to head down to Station Hill today.

The SSAFA has been providing support to forces families since 1885 and every year the team help over 60,000 from Second World War Veterans to solders who have severed in the Middle East.

The Biscuit Tin, a coffee shop and bar at Station Hill, is hosting a 'BBQ and Bevvies' event on May 5 to support the troops with all proceeds going to the charity.

The cafe will also provide fuel for the soldiers for the duration of their marathon.

The sponsored row will take place until 6pm tomorrow (May 6).

Corporal Paul Crawshaw, who was one of the men taking part said: "SSAFA helped with everything, and we want to repay them in any way we can."

The Squadrons aim is to raise £2,500 during this event.

Troop Staff Corporal Chris McGregor said: "We wanted to help SSAFA in any way we could, it would be great if we were able to reach our target."

If you would like to contribute you can via http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-web/fundraiser/showFundraiserProfilePage.action?userUrl=33ArmdEngrSqn&isTeam=true