A ROWER who was part of an ocean crossing team who lost contact with race organisers has been found safe and well by a coastguard patrol.

A support yacht had been sent to trace the crew of Rowing for Prostate, which includes Tim Wigram, originally from Bovey Tracey, after they lost contact with organisers for five days.

The crew, who are raising money for cancer charities, are taking part in the Indian Ocean Rowing Race.

The race is 3,132 nautical miles from Geraldton, Western Australia to Mauritius.

The crew had been in regular contact with race organisers Woodvale Challenge throughout the 71-day journey, until last Saturday.

It is thought there was a problem with the satellite communications system which meant the crew were unable to make contact.

But the crew of four were spotted by a coastguard patrol plane on Thursday and made contact via a VHS radio.

The crew are safe and well, and about 300 miles from the finishing line in Mauritius.

Yesterday Tom's mother-in-law Susanne Heron said all the families were 'relieved'.

Tom's mum Sue and sister Tess, from Bovey Tracey, flew out to Mauritius yesterday to see the crew cross the finish line.

Tom's dad James and brother Will, fly out next week.

Susanne said: "There was a patrol coastguard plane which made contact with the boat at about 5am Mauritius time on Thursday.

"They have got about 300 miles left to do and they are all safe and well.

"We are hoping they will cross the finish line next week depending on the currents. We are getting so excited and we are so relieved they are safe."

Mrs Heron explained: "We did think it was a problem with the satellite phone, but although you are 90 per cent sure, there's always 10 per cent in you mind that it might not be good news."

She said: "Sue was on the plane by the time I got the news, but I left a message for her.

"They have had a lot of support from people in Devon. Unfortunately a lot of press picked up on the missing bit and put the fear of God into people.

"They were very worried because they did not know the full situation."

Tom's wife Rebecca, was flying out from their home in New Zealand to join the family in Mauritius.

She said the crew had overcome plenty of hurdles during the challenge including bad weather, broken rowing seats and food shortages.

So far the crew have raised nearly £22,000 for The Prostate Cancer Charity and the Cancer Society of New Zealand.

To sponsor the team and help them reach their £24,000 target visit rowingforprostate.com