A PEMBROKESHIRE inn was transformed into a spooky spectacle as Action for Children staff joined a Hallowe’en-themed send-off party for the Merched y Mor Atlantic rowing team.

The event marked a spirited farewell to the all-female crew preparing to take on the epic challenge of rowing across the Atlantic Ocean.

Staff from Action for Children services in West Wales mingled with locals and supporters at The Ship Inn in Solva to celebrate the courage and determination of the ‘Women of the Sea’. The evening featured live music, themed refreshments, and a charity raffle to support the rowers’ fundraising efforts.

“We’re incredibly proud to stand behind these remarkable women,” said Sandra White, an Operational Director for Action for Children in Wales. “Their journey is a powerful symbol of resilience, teamwork, and ambition—qualities we champion every day in our work with children and families across Wales. We will be watching their progress closely and wish them all the luck in the world as they tackle this fantastic challenge.”

The crew comprises Denise Leonard, Helen Heaton, Heledd Williams, and Liz Collyer. They will soon embark on The World’s Toughest Row, one of the world’s most gruelling ocean rowing races. Their mission is to raise awareness and funds for four charities close to their hearts: Action for Children, the RNLI, Popham Kidney Support, and the Sea Trust.

Crew member Helen Heaton, who selected Action for Children as one of the team’s supported charities, said: “It feels very real now and we’re really looking forward to getting going and putting our training into practice. It was a great send off from everyone and so good to see staff from my chosen charity seeing us on our way too. Supporting them through this challenge is my way of giving back and shining a light on the incredible work they do every day.”