Steve Chetcuti, the Maltese corporate communications manager at Hero Group is preparing to row the Atlantic Ocean.

Mr Chetcuti, who also worked as an editor at The Malta Independent for six years from 1996, will embark on his journey in March.

Addressing the feedback he has received, he said “some say I'm crazy and they may be right. What I know is that thanks to your help, I'll be able to collect money to help my three charities - and also fulfil my personal goal.”

Hero Group wished him luck, saying “we support his efforts and wish him all the best on his trip”.

The 6,000 km trip, on which Mr Chetcuti will be accompanied by five “like-minded people”, will raise funds for Hospice Malta, Krebsliga Schweiz, and Terre des Hommes foundation.

As of Saturday, Mr Chetcuti had raised €9,856 for the charities.

His plans to undertake this challenge were formed in November 2018, nine months after his brother, Mike, passed away after battling a brain tumour.