An ambitious attempt by an army veteran to set a world record for the longest continuous stay on the remote North Atlantic outcrop of Rockall has been cut short after just 32 days, leading to his rescue by the coastguard.

Cam Cameron, from Cherhill near Calne in Wiltshire, embarked on his challenge on May 26th. His goal was to endure 60 days on the tiny, uninhabitable rock, situated 230 miles (370km) west of North Uist, all while raising money for veterans’ charities.

Rockall, famously exposed and inhospitable, measures a mere 100ft (30m) wide and 70ft (21m) long above the waterline, offering virtually no natural shelter from the elements.

Mr. Cameron made a distress call at 08:55 BST on Friday, citing “declining weather conditions” that made further stay untenable. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) swiftly responded, dispatching a search and rescue helicopter from Stornoway. A spokeswoman for the MCA later confirmed that Mr. Cameron had been successfully winched to safety following a coordinated operation, which also involved support from a fixed-wing aircraft.

While his record attempt was curtailed by the formidable forces of nature, Cameron’s bravery and dedication to his cause have garnered significant attention and support for veterans’ charities.