A SUFFOLK man has today returned from an adventure rowing solo across the North Atlantic from New York to Europe.Oliver Hicks, 23, of Thorpeness, has become the first British and youngest ever person to successfully complete the challenge.

A SUFFOLK man is back on dry land today after rowing solo across the North Atlantic from New York to Europe.

Oliver Hicks, 23, of Thorpeness, became the first Brit and youngest ever person to successfully complete the challenge.

Mr Hicks set off from New York on May 23 and arrived at Falmouth yesterday after his 4,000-mile journey.

During his 126 days at sea on a Virgin Atlantic boat Mr Hicks had to contend with extreme weather conditions.

Sir Richard Branson, chairman of Virgin Atlantic, said: "Virgin Atlantic are delighted to welcome Oliver home after his historic journey and I am personally thrilled to see him back on dry land.

"He's been followed by sharks and coped with horrendous storms along the way.

"It is as remarkable an adventure as any of the great British adventurers and unlike Scott of the Antarctic, he has managed to come all the way home."

Mr Hicks raised money for the charity Hope and Homes for Children - a charity which began in 1994 and gives hope to children who have nowhere to live due to war or disaster.

So far, he has raised £30,500 through his efforts.