TWO SCOTS have helped break the record for the fastest ever crossing of the vast Indian Ocean in a rowing boat.

Skipper Leven Brown and Jamie Douglas-Hamilton are among a Welshman, three Australians and a rower from Iceland on board the Rossiter's Avalon, which has achieved the longest distance rowing record.

The rowers have covered more than 4,200 miles since leaving Geraldton, Australia, on June 11. They reached the Seychelles on Thursday in just 57 days despite knockdowns in massive seas and the loss of crucial equipment, a collision with a whale, and the evacuation of a crewman in a dramatic mid-ocean rescue.

The crew are also the first to cross from Australia to the Seychelles under oar-power.

The men have rowed for 24 hours a day in two hour shifts. Mr Brown said he had enjoyed a beer after the trip, adding: "It's been one of the most remarkable voyages." It also raised money for Save the Elephants and for Multiple Sclerosis research.