A TEENAGER who became the youngest person to row the Atlantic has been honoured by the Bolton branch of the Royal Naval Association.

Rachel Flanders, aged 17, was one of a four-woman crew - the Atlantic Angels - who rowed the 3,000-mile journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the West Indies.

The crew was taking part in the Woodvale Challenge Atlantic Rowing Race to raise cash for three cancer charities.

They completed the journey in 74 days, arriving in Antigua on February 14.

The Bolton School pupil was invited to a special ceremony at the Bolton Sea Cadets Unit headquarters in Castle Street, The Haugh, on Wednesday evening.

Her parents, Richard and Louise, and 12-year-old brother Charles also attended.

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Barbara Ronson, presented her with a badge, headscarf and telescope, on behalf of the association, which represents and provides support to former Navy personnel.

Jan Thomas ( Mr), secretary of the association's Bolton branch, said: "We were delighted to host a ceremony in honour of Rachel.

"What she achieved was fantastic. She showed real determination and courage.

"It is only when you go to sea for a length of time that you understand what she has been through.

Rachel, from Heaton, said: "I had a lovely evening. I enjoyed meeting all the members of the association and sharing stories of being at sea with them.

"I feel honoured that they wanted to make me a member of the Royal Naval Association."