Thanks for visiting my fundraising page. Please take the time to read ALL of this message!

On Sunday 22nd June 2008 I am taking up the challenge set by customers of the Bell Inn at Adderbury, North Oxfordshire CAMRA Pub of The Year 2008, to raise much needed funds for Katharine House Hospice here in Adderbury, by punting the Thames, from where it enters Oxfordshire near Lechlade to where it leaves it near Henley, a distance of around 80 miles. I am using a 96 year old punt built at Salters Boatyard on the Thames in Oxford and which is lovingly cared for by Nick Birch at his boat yard at Avon Boating in Stratford-upon-Avon, for a good friend, who is lending it to me for the challenge.

Please sponsor me for this challenge, which is probably the most physical one I have ever undertaken! Not bad for a 50-something!

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Katharine House Hospice Trust, Adderbury, Oxfordshire gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation. If you prefer your can post your donation to me at The Bell Inn, High Street, Adderbury, Banbury, OXON, OX17 3LS, or why not pop it in when you're passing.

Donations can be accepted on this site until November 16th, 2008.

So please sponsor me now!

On Saturday 31st May I held an auction to sell places on the punt. As a result it brought in an additional £205. There are still two days available, Sunday 22nd June and Thursday 26th. If you want to join me on those days, and pay for the priviledge, contact me as soon as!  If you need more information, or have any fundraising ideas that can be bolted on to this challenge (and want to get involved), give me a call on 01295 810338, email info@the-bell.com or come up and see me sometime.

I've now got a support boat in the form of a 4 birth thames cruiser, but I need a crew member to help the skipper through the locks and at moorings! Anyone want a week's holiday afloat and raise money for a really worthy cause? If that's you, or you know someone who fits the description, let me know, NOW!

Cheers!

John B