Gosport sailor gives his support to 2,000 mile round Britain standup paddleboard attempt

Alex Alley is supporting Jordan Wylie in his official world record attempt, which is raising money for charity Frontline Children. The charity hopes to build a new school in Africa.

Jordan is a former soldier, bestselling author, extreme adventurer and also one of the stars of Channel 4’s BAFTA-nominated and award-winning shows Hunted and Celebrity Hunted.

Alex said: ‘Jordan came to me only a few weeks before the start of the project asking if I could help and manage the project. With my world record sailing experience I was more than happy to help with the challenge, giving Jordan weather and route guidance each day as well as managing the project team.’

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The attempt has already raised more than £5,000 – but Jordan hopes to raise more than £100,000. Jordan left from Essex Marina at Wallasea Island on July 26 and is currently off Devon.

Jordan, 36, who grew up in Blackpool but who now lives in Hampshire, said: ‘If I achieve the record it’s a bonus but for me, the greatest achievement will be to inspire lots of young people through the spirit of adventure. The fact it’s a world record attempt is great for allowing me to talk about the children and the charity that we are trying to help.’

The mission has seen a few hiccups so far, such as battling stormy weather, injuries and support boat problems.

However the team, which also includes Gosport adventurer Paula Reid, who is married to Alex, have been buoyed by the public’s generous support.

Alex added: ‘We already have great support from a lot of people, from offering places to stay each night, to equipment, but we are always open to more offers.

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‘One thing we are particularly looking for is people to help with accommodation along the route, maybe someone has a holiday home somewhere they could use for a night or have friends relatives on the route. Please get in touch.’

Jordan is no stranger to fundraising or extreme challenges. He ran through the three most dangerous countries in the world in 2018, he was the first person to row across the Bab El Mandeb Straits hailed the most dangerous stretch of water on the planet, and also plans to run marathons in the 10 coldest places on Earth later this year.

He will have covered more than 2,000 miles by the time he finishes his standup paddleboarding challenge.

‘One thing’s for sure this is going to take a lot longer than planned,’ he said.

For more go to thegreatbritishpaddle.com.

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