Prince of Wales sends support for Welsh Guards captain and team on World's Toughest Row

The Prince of Wales has sent his support to one of the military teams taking on the World's Toughest Row.

Prince William took the time to write to Captain Robert Cross, of Team V3NTURE and the Welsh Guards, to wish him and the other members of the team "the very best of luck".

"It is fantastic to hear that you are fundraising for such worthy causes, not least The Welsh Guards Charity, and want to offer my heartfelt appreciation for your efforts," His Royal Highness said.

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"What lies ahead will be both mentally and physically challenging, however I have no doubt that you will display the necessary fortitude to get you to the finish line in Antigua."

He signed off the message by wishing the team "fair winds and following seas", as well as the message "Pob lwc", a Welsh phrase that means "good luck".

In response, the team said they were "absolutely thrilled" by his message.

"As Colonel of the Welsh Guards, his support is a huge morale boost as we start Day 4 of our Atlantic row," the post said.

The team is made up of three British Army personnel from the Welsh Guards, RIFLES & Royal Artillery.

It is not the only link to the Royal Family from this year's military rowing teams, with Princess Anne also becoming a patron of Force Atlantic – the first all-female British Army team to take on the row.

In a letter, the Princess Royal said she was "most impressed at the commitment" the team was showing to "highlight the key role service women play" in the Armed Forces.

"Your wider aims of promoting servicewomen, inspiring others and highlighting the importance of belonging, is relevant to everyone, both in and out of service," she said.

"The importance that belonging has in creating environments that allow individuals to succeed cannot be underestimated."

There are two other military teams taking part in the row.

HMS Oardacious Valkyries are the Royal Navy's first-ever all women’s military ocean rowing team, while Oarsome Army Educators is made up of four Army educators.