Ex-soldier stops off in Cromer as he kayaks the entire British coast
Andy Swainston is kayaking around the British coast to raise awareness for PTSD. Picture: ELEANOR PRINGLE - Credit: Archant
North Norfolk is currently playing host to an army veteran on an extraordinary adventure.
Ex army soldier Andy Swainston is kayaking the British coast. Picture ELEANOR PRINGLE - Credit: Archant
Andy Swainston paddled into the Cromer beach on Thursday, June 22, having kayaked three hours from Wells-next-the-Sea.
The former paramedic will be travelling the British coast in his kayak, raising money for MIND and post traumatic stress disorder charity Heroes on the Water.
The father-of-three explained: 'When I was a Paramedic I began to suffer with nightmares and flash backs. I was not sleeping and destroyed my family life through reckless behaviour and heavy drinking, to help block the memories. It came to a point where I just couldn't take it any more and attempted to kill myself. Thankfully I can say now I was found in time.
'I want to raise awareness about PTSD by doing this challenge, as well as raising some money for the charities.'
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The 49-year-old continued; 'I started out from Whitby on June 5. I've had some times where I've wondered what I've been doing and I had to have a few days in land where it was just too dangerous to keep going.
'But this is the best way to see the British coast, and I've seen a lot of wildlife on my way. I had about a hundred seals following me about one point, I don't think I've done a leg of the journey yet where a seal hasn't followed the boat for a bit.'
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He continued: 'I'm moving on to Mundesley and Happisburgh next, so any recommendations of where to stay or help with getting around would be much appreciated, as my kayak is so heavy!'
To support Andy, visit his fundraising page.
