The RNLI is a very precious commodity to everyone engaged on or around the water and, as we know, is totally reliant on voluntary contributions for its existence and capability. Despite the enormous generosity of the many people who give freely of their time and who unselfishly take risks on our behalf, there are nevertheless many inevitable operating costs that need to be met – and we all know that these are increasing fast in the current climate.

As well as being a keen yachtsman myself I am also engaged in the leisure boating world, helping people find the right boat to meet their needs and fulfil their boating ambitions. I therefore appreciate the need to support the RNLI locally and I decided to do something challenging to raise funds for our local team; something water-based but also something that I would never dream that I could do.

My challenge will raise money for the Dart Lifeboat Station Appeal which will be launched in the near future to raise money to purchase and refurbish the original Dart Lifeboat Station to provide a modern home for the RNLI Volunteers in Dartmouth.

In a mad moment I resolved to travel the approximately 170 miles of the River Thames.  This will entail walking the first 25 miles until the river becomes navigable, then continuing by kayak until I reach Tower Bridge, camping along the way.  It will mean descending over 100m through 44 locks and 195 weirs, negotiating some 214 bridges and 17 tunnels, and rounding at least 190 islands.  The final stretch involves paddling the Tideway from Teddington, where the current can flow fast and the waters can be both busy and choppy. What could be more fun!

Of course, I will be looking for support along the way, and from our local community, to help me achieve the best result I can for our precious RNLI lifesavers.  I do hope that together we can do something momentous that achieves a significant benefit for those who find they need vital assistance on the water whenever that should arise.