On the 9th September, local child bereavement charity, Nelson’s Journey, collaborated with Norfolk Paddle Boards to hold a unique fundraising event called the Purple Paddle.
The event saw 26 keen paddlers embark on a morning paddle through the city centre, wearing purple clothing to show their support and to match the charity's branding. As the group paddled through waterways, Nelson’s Journey volunteers cheered them on from the bridges and many pedestrians stopped to see the sea of purple paddlers meander through the city.
Later that day, 11 paddlers took on a challenging 14km point-to-point paddle, starting at the Red Lion in Bishopgate and finishing at the White Heron pub in Brundall. Despite the heat on one of the hottest days of the summer, and paddling a fair distance against the tide, the group arrived safely in Brundall 5 hours later. The group did manage a couple of quick rest stops at the Rivergarden pub in Thorpe St Andrew and the Woods End pub in Bramerton. The event was a great success and has so far raised £1647.25.
Becky Bushell, Funding and Marketing Officer at Nelson’s Journey said “Paddleboarding offers the opportunity to get outdoors, enjoy the beautiful views and countryside from the water which has such a positive effect to your mental health and wellbeing. The event has raised vital funds for the charity whilst highlighting the benefits of paddleboarding, the positive impact it has in the community and how it can improve people’s mental health and wellbeing. This aligns well with Nelson’s Journey’s mission to increase the self-esteem, self-belief and wellbeing of bereaved children and young in Norfolk. The success of this event would not have been possible without the invaluable contribution and support we’ve had from the team at Norfolk Paddle Boards and everyone who took part too – thank you.”
Shona Matthews from Norfolk Paddle Boards added “I’m overwhelmed with the amount raised from the Purple Paddle for Nelson’s Journey. As someone who loves purple anyway, it was such a sight to see the river filled with purple t-shirts, bows, buoyancy aids and even purple boards! The best sight was more importantly the smiles both on and off the water! I’d like to thank the participants in both events and everyone who sponsored, donated and spectated. I’d also like to thank the team at The Red Lion Bishopgate for their hospitality and the fuel before the long paddle. Norfolk Paddle Boards has a huge focus on community and it has been great to fundraise for a local charity.”
Norfolk Paddle Boards and Nelson’s Journey’s collaboration came about this year as they have joined the charity’s NJ25 campaign. The campaign includes a group of local businesses who are supporting the charity in their 25th year with the goal to collectively raise £25,000. The funds will finance the salary of a Child Bereavement Support Worker for one year.
