Retired army major completes 100-mile Chichester Canal row in home-made boat
There's now a chance to own Mick Stanley's 'Tintanic'
Last updated 21st Dec 2020
A retired ex-army major has come to the end of an 'oar-some' charity challenge by rowing 100 miles up and down Chichester Canal.
80-year-old Major Mick Stanley, from East Wittering, took more than three months to complete the challenge in his home-made, corrugated iron vessel - dubbed the 'Tintanic'.
He could regularly be seen paddling the three-mile journey up and down the canal, twice a week or more.
The ‘Tintanic’, the metallic vessel lived up to its name sake on the maiden voyage, but has proved dependable ever since.
Mick's challenge has helped to pull in some £36,300 for St Wilfrid's Hospice so far.
After completing his challenge on Friday, Major Mick said:
"I am very proud to accomplish this mission I set myself for St Wilfrid’s Hospice, It’s been wonderful talking to passers-by on each canal trip, it’s been a joy to bring a smile to so many peoples day – and also hear how many lives have been touched by the Hospice in such a positive way."
At any one time St Wilfrid’s Hospice supports around 330 patients with end of life care, the majority in their own homes.
The hospice also houses patients at their 'Dreambuilding' in Bosham.
Alison Moorey, Chief Executive for St Wilfrid’s Hospice said:
"We are so grateful to have local heroes like Major Mick prepared to get active for St Wilfrid’s.
"St Wilfrid’s Hospice receive just 16% of its funding from the NHS, and relies on the ongoing support of the public to raise £7.8 million each year.
"His commitment and creativity has brought some festive cheer to so many. We also thank all those who have so generously donated to the Tintanic challenge.
"These vital funds will support many patients and their loved ones needing compassionate care."
The tally raised so far is enough to fund over 20 days of the Hospice at Home’s service or provide a ward nurse for 49 days.
Nautical enthusiasts or those looking to own an internationally celebrated conversation piece can look forward to bidding on the ‘Tintanic’ EBay auction.
The vessel, complete with bailing out can, will be listed on the Hospice’s EBay shop until 8.00pm Monday 28th December.
You can also still give to St Wilfrid's Hospice via Major Mick’s JustGiving page.