Hi, my name is Jim. I enjoy paddling my kayak and I love a good, unusual adventure with a real sense of journey. So this time, I have devised a challenge for myself that ticks all of those boxes several times over.

Commencing on the 1st June, I will set off with my kayak from the east coast of England and make my way on a ‘Through Route’ across the entire British Isles, paddling ‘from right to left’ across England, Wales and Ireland. My journey will utilise Britain and Ireland’s unique tapestry of estuaries, rivers, canals and the sea, to stitch together a paddling route that spans nearly 1000km on an unbroken journey.

They say that the very definition of adventure is that of uncertain outcomes. Well, this is certainly that. To my knowledge, this trip has never been done before. It will involve some really classic and iconic paddling stages, including the absolute blue ribband of sea paddling in this country – a full crossing of the Irish Sea from Holyhead to Dublin.

What I also love about this challenge is that it takes place in my backyard, so to speak. I have travelled to nearly 100 countries across all 7 continents; for this route I will drive two hours from my home to the start and I will pass through so many places that hold fond and powerful memories.

It's also for a good cause. Over the past few years my company, Rat Race, together with our fantastic customers has helped to raise over £2.5 million for the brilliant charity Children with Cancer. On this trip, I plan to add to the pot and shine a light on their work. I am eternally grateful for any donations that you may feel able to give.

Well, thanks for reading. If you fancy tracking my progress along this rather quirky and ambitious journey, you can watch my dot move very slowly across the wet bits of these islands and follow me over on Rat Race's Instagram page @RatRaceHQ.

Don’t be alarmed however if it is seen stationary in the vicinity of some of the wonderful waterside pubs I am sure to encounter on my way!...