Amateur kayak enthusiast Pete Miller will embark on a gruelling charity paddle challenge to raise funds for St Martins.
Pete will take on this bold and challenging adventure at the end of February when he will paddle 100 miles over six days in cold water, completely solo. Throughout this journey, he’ll be camping out in a tent, which will push his limits both physically and mentally.
Pete is Managing Director of Miller Installations, a family-run business that specialises in heat pumps and prides itself on supporting local charities and community causes.
Pete, who lives in North Norfolk, resonated with St Martins’ aim of supporting people to get their lives back on track. Pete describes St Martins as a ‘remarkable charity’. He said, “Their work transforms the lives of people who are often overlooked by society by providing essential services, support, and a pathway to a brighter future.
“By taking on this extreme charity paddle challenge, I hope to reflect the resilience and determination that so many people facing homelessness demonstrate every day. Every mile I paddle will be a step towards making a difference, and I invite people to join me in supporting this cause.”
The Charity Paddle Challenge
Pete’s charity paddle challenge will take place over six days. Starting at
Hellesdon Mill, Pete will paddle to Reedham Ferry, Oulton Broad, St Olaves then Breydon Water, Acle, Hickling and Wroxham before he finishes at Wayford Bridge. He said, “The local pubs have been supportive by letting me camp at their establishments. Thanks to Reedham Ferry, Acle bridge and Hickling Pleasure Boat.”
He has planned and modified his kit carefully and has secured a support boat for crossing Breydon Water. Pete said, “The weather is the biggest determining factor; if it’s windy and rainy it’ll be a week of hell! It doesn’t matter how cold it is; I’m doing it!”
Much harder than recreational kayaking, Pete estimates that he’ll travel at two and a half miles an hour and he’ll be racing to complete each stretch in daylight hours.
A keen carp angler, Pete is used to being outside for lengthy periods in the cold. He knows he needs to eat and refuel regularly as he attempts to cover 20 miles a day, with a rest day built in to recuperate – or catch up – depending on how much progress he has made.
Pete’s fundraising target is £2000. Support Pete on his Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/pete-miller-1 and follow him on @paddle4homeuk
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