Our project 'chair' and Rector Andy was set the challenge to sail around the island in his 19ft 10" sailing boat called 'Karolu' in favour of building the new parish centre.

The inclement weather led to the cancellation of the island circumnavigation as planned on 17th-18th June, but an easying of the rain and breeze meant that a 5.30am start on Saturday 19th June gave us the chance to get around the island in one day.

We took that opportunity and returned to Portsmouth at 6.00pm after 60 miles, sharing the journey with Dophins, a bit of motoring and some good sailing.

May I express my gratitude to the 'crew' who made it possible.  To Mark for joining me on 'Karolu' and to Peter, Jorgen and Libby on the support boat 'Tiddley Pom II'.

So the challenge is complete and may we express sincere thanks to all who've supported us by your interest and by your generous donations. A BIG THANK YOU.

THE INTRODUCTORY POST FOR THE VOYAGE READ:

The weather looks promising and so all being well the plan is to sail the 17 miles to Lymington on Thursday 17th June and then complete the remaining 44 miles of navigation on Friday 18th.  Of course it involves much 'tacking' and so the distance covered over ground can be more than that!  We'd hope for an average speed of about 4 knots.

A more typical sail for Andy is the 7 miles to Bembridge or 10 miles to Cowes so this will be Andy's biggest challenge.

Joining Andy will be Mark Turvey from our Parish Centre Regeneration Team, where Mark is involved in 'applying' for the big grants (please pray for those!); plus Mark is famous for his packed and wonderful 'Sea Shanty Evenings' in the Parish Centre!  He'll be keeping Andy's spirit up with his shanty singing!

We're grateful to Peter Metcalf and his sailing friend Jorgen who will be in company with us onboard Peter's larger yacht 'Tiddely Pom 2'.  This is our support boat to keep us safe as we 'bob about' in the channel or the dark!

We're Springing Into Action because Alverstoke Parish Centre Regeneration Project has planning permission to rebuild the centre with multiple rooms, better parking, improved facilities to serve the whole community.This last year has shown how much we value social interactions and this centre provides space for this.Together we can make the rebuild a possibility