A charity rowing challenge and cake sale was held to mark the 85th anniversary of Dunkirk.

Victory Squadron at HMS Collingwood, Fareham, organised the event on May 1, aiming to collectively row 266km, the distance from Dunkirk to Portsmouth.

Some 133 volunteers each rowed 2km in 10-minute slots.

The event was open to all, with participants encouraged to cheer on the rowers and enjoy cakes provided by VS.

AB Chris Crawford supports charity challenge in memory of Dunkirk soldiersAB Chris Crawford supports charity challenge in memory of Dunkirk soldiers (Image: Keith Woodland) Able seaman Chris Crawford, who organised the event, said: "VE Day and the Battle of Dunkirk are huge moments in history.

"Those soldiers are the reason we’re here today so anything we can do to give back and to educate everyone about what happened on that memorable day is great.

"It was important for us to raise money for the RNA but to also mark the 85th anniversary of Dunkirk."

Rowing challenge held to mark 85 years since DunkirkRowing challenge held to mark 85 years since Dunkirk (Image: Keith Woodland) All funds raised will go to the Royal Naval Association (RNA), supporting current and former naval personnel and their families.