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Long distance kayak to support ‘superheroes’

Local man Andrew Turrill has made it his mission today to lone kayak from Reading to Bristol approximately 78 miles, in aid of Andover Young Carers.

Andover young carers, is an organisation who provide activities, help, and support to young carers, who Andrew describes as ‘superheroes’. “The term young carer includes children and young people under 18 who provide regular or ongoing care and emotional support to a family member with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or misuse of drug/alcohol.” says Andrew and “I cant express the fantastic work that Andover young Carers do”

Andover Young Carers offer indoor and outdoor activities, vital relief, and vital support to an amazing, but often hidden, group of young people within Northern Test Valley and surrounding districts, Andrew explains.

On his Go Fund Me page Andrew explained that being a sibling to 5 brothers and having grown up with autism and anxiety, “life as a child / young person very challenging” for him . However, he went on to say that “attending youth groups, not only helped to build my self-confidence and social skills, but they also sparked my passion for outdoor activities, and therefore, I know what a real difference groups can make to a young person’s life.”

Today, a little later than planned, Andrew started his challenge on the banks of the Thames beside the Wokingham Waterside Centre home of Wokingham Canoe Club which is located a short distance East of the start of the Kennet and Avon.

May be an image of 1 person and text that says "Reading to Bristol Solo Kayak2021 Bristol Honeystreet Bath Reading Newbury In Aid of Hungerford Devizes AND Bradford onAvon Pewsey VER young carers"

Setting off around 11am, Andrew has been determined to reach a good distance today, reaching the second lock at Reading he posted “Past Second Lock. Big thank you to staff from canal and river trust.” Andrew will be adding regular updates on his Facebook page Reading to Bristol Solo Kayak 2021 The total current figure stand at £375 with the hope that he can reach his goal of £450.

May be an image of 1 person and body of water

Massive well done and keep going from all of Love Andover