Shelterboat

Our member Paul Weatherill is building a boat, incorporating a Shelterbox, which he plans to sail from Hickling, via Great Yarmouth to Norwich in the summer of 2021 to raise awareness and funds for the Shelterbox Charity. This international charity  was formed in the UK by Rotarians to provide emergency shelter and the means to survive for families who find themselves in disaster zones around the world, whether that is through natural disasters or human conflict.

 A Shelterbox is basically a large box, containing among other things, a tent which will accommodate a family of ten, cooking utensils and a stove, blankets and a water purifier. These are delivered directly to where they are needed with the help of the worldwide network of Rotary Clubs.

Update: June 2021. The boat is now almost complete, and Paul is pleased to report that it passed its bouyancy test on a local pond i.e. it didn't sink. A launch date for the expedition later this summer is anticipated.

Update 21st June 2021. The boat is now complete and launch date fixed for 2 p.m. Saturday 7th August at Hickling Broad. Paul will single handedly navigate to Norwich, via Great Yarmouth, a journey of some 50 miles which is expected to take 4 days.

Update 10th August. The trip was successfully completed, although a few problems were encountered with adverse winds, and dangerous currents in Breydon Water. Paul was exhausted but delighted to have overcome all difficulties and been able to raise a considerable sum for Shelterbox.

If you wish to support Paul in his endeavours with a donation to this very worthy cause, simply follow this link: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-weatherill