A senior fire officer from West Sussex is preparing to kayak 30 miles along the Sussex coast to raise money for charity.
Dave Bray, Head of Protection at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, will take on the endurance challenge in support of the Fire Fighters Charity.
On 15 August, he plans to kayak from Bognor Regis Pier to Worthing Pier and back again, completing the journey in under ten hours.
Dave, who is in his 28th year with the fire and rescue service, said the challenge had been inspired partly by an approaching milestone birthday.
He said: “I am in my 28th year with the fire and rescue service and it has been a few years since I last undertook a charity challenge. I thought the onset of a significant birthday would be a good excuse to prove that I can still push myself mentally and physically.
“The challenge will test both my physical endurance and mental resilience, navigating a demanding stretch of coastline while maintaining a fast pace.
“The Fire Fighters Charity does incredible work supporting firefighters and their families through some of the most challenging periods of their lives, which is why I'm proud to take on this challenge and help raise funds to support their vital work.”
The 30-mile route will see Dave paddle across Sussex Bay between the two seaside towns before turning around and completing the return journey.
However, he said the challenge would only take place if sea and weather conditions were considered safe.
Dave added: “Clearly there is a safety risk involved where the sea is concerned, so if the conditions do not support my attempt to complete this on 15 August, I will postpone and go as soon as conditions become optimal.”
He is hoping to raise £500 for the Fire Fighters Charity, which provides lifelong support to serving and retired firefighters, other fire and rescue personnel and their families.
The charity offers physical, mental health and social wellbeing support to members of the fire service community during difficult periods in their lives.
People can find out more about Dave’s challenge and make a donation through his JustGiving page David Bray is fundraising for Fire Fighters Charity
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