A Malvern rower has completed an epic solo across the Atlantic - and inspired pupils at her old school.

Lara Vafiadis completed her mammoth 3,000-mile journey last Tuesday (March 21) after 98 days, 22 hours and 22 minutes at sea.

An exhausted Lara, who has raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity, was greeted at the finish line in Antigua by friends and family.

Pupils at Malvern College, where Lara was a pupil, tuned in to the live feed to watch her complete the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.

Malvern Gazette: Lara visited her old school in December and has inspired pupils and staffLara visited her old school in December and has inspired pupils and staff (Image: Malvern College)

Lara had visited Malvern College to give girls at the school a motivational talk before she embarked on her rowing adventure back in December.

The school has since followed her progress avidly, sending good wishes on social media and encouraging others to support her fundraising efforts.

Suzy Leeke, head of alumni engagement for the Malvernian Society, said the school could not be more proud of Lara and all that she had achieved.

READ MORE: Lara Vafiadis battles 40-foot waves in solo Atlantic row

“It has been a roller coaster watching her journey as she has faced numerous challenges, low points and real once-in-a-lifetime moments such as when a large humpback swam straight underneath her six-metre long ocean rowing boat.

“But she has tackled everything thrown at her, fully enjoyed the memorable moments and never forgotten her passion for encouraging others to have their own ambitions.”

Headmaster Keith Metcalfe added: “We are extremely proud of Lara and I know staff and pupils alike have much enjoyed watching her take on this challenge and now very much feel inspired by not only her success but her attitude throughout which has been determined, resilient and positive in outlook.”

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Pupils at Malvern College are encouraged to take on a range of challenges of their own, including canoe polo and mountain biking.

An ambitious expedition takes place every other year, which sees a selected group of pupils face an endurance trek lasting up to three weeks, often travelling hundreds of miles using bikes, kayaks and paddle boards.

Lara launched her challenge in memory of her father and the money raised goes to Prostate Cancer UK, Plan UK for equality for girls and Our Only World, an environmental charity.

Any further donations can be made at This Girl Rows www.thisgirlrows.com