Army veteran is kayaking across Channel to raise funds for charities
A VETERAN has embarked on an epic 322-mile solo fundraising kayak trip to raise money for charities supporting service personnel.
Graham Stobbs, 48, departed from Rye Harbour, East Sussex, on Wednesday after setting off for his gruelling challenge that includes a Channel crossing in just 11 days.
The former servant of the Royal Green Jackets, now known as the Rifles, will complete over 10 hours of kayaking a day along the south coast and over to the French coast.
He will be stopping at Newhaven, Bognor Regis, Gosport, Bournemouth, Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Exmouth and Brixham.
The team are raising money for the Veteran’s Hub Swindon, Walking with the Wounded and The Veterans Hub Weymouth, three charities dedicated to supporting the continued wellbeing of veterans.
Graham is paddling in an 18ft Scorpio Sea Kayak, aiming to raise as much money as possible for the veterans’ causes that are close to his heart.
He is a passionate supporter of these charities having suffered with his own mental health problems and is taking on this challenge to help break the stigma and encourage veterans to talk.
Graham, who lives in Swindon, said: ‘I’m excited and nervous about the trip. The challenge will push the boundaries of my mental wellbeing, endurance and physical capability.
‘Mental health and PTSD is a real challenge for veterans that commonly goes unrecognised for many years after service and the funds are desperately needed so I’m determined to do my bit to help those who have given so much for their country.
‘This is also part of my own healing process and I hope to encourage others to reach out about their own difficulties and seek help like I did. I want to show there is light at the end of the tunnel.’
Graham is also founder of Swindon’s Mfor Festival, a family fun day meets music festival which supports veteran, military and mental health charities, including The Veterans Hub.
To donate go to: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/221-mile-kayak