Blackadder star gives his support to world record Avon bathtub paddle
Published 7 June 2012
On Sunday 29 July, two intrepid paddlers are aiming to navigate 17 miles down the River Avon in a bathtub – three times the current world record.
The challenge is raising money for Alzheimer's Society and for the Portishead Lifeboat Trust. Last month, Rob Knott, aged 40, from Portishead, and 56-year-old Axbridge resident Ric Canham were foiled by torrential rain and dangerous currents in their attempt but are trying again!
Tony Robinson, best known for this portrayal of Baldrick as well as fronting the long running 'Time Team' programme, has given his backing for the 'cunning plan' to raise money for the two charities while aiming to smash the world record.
The challenge is not just physical: staying upright on the water in a bathtub is a fine art, and the two have been training hard for several months. And while Rob Knott, aged 40, has years of experience in canoes, 55 year old Ric Canham is a self-confessed novice as well as unfit.
But the idea certainly appeals to Tony Robinson, who has given the effort his full support-
'Helping people with dementia is something very close to my heart and I want to wish the team all the very best and ask everyone out there to support this wacky endeavour in any way they can.'
The two will set off from Bath Marina on Sunday morning, and will be hoping for support along the riverbanks, where friends will also be collecting money, as they make their way towards Bristol Marina - landing (they hope!) at the Cottage Inn.
Ric said
'It's fantastic to have Tony Robinson's support, as he's someone I've always loved as an actor - and admired as an ambassador for the Society. I took up this challenge to raise money to beat a disease that claimed the life of a dear friend. Every penny raised can make a difference to a really important cause.'
The two will also have political support in the shape of local MP Tessa Munt, who has promised to paddle one mile of the journey in her own specially made bathtub. Anyone else who fancies having a go can also get involved by contacting the organisers.
More information about the challenge itself and how to support the duo in their challenge can be found on their website.
