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Atlantic crossing for

One of the most exciting global challenges for a yachtsman to dream about is to sail the . For many yearssailors have been inspired by the around-the-world expeditions of Joshua Slocum, Chay Blyth, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Sir Francis Chichester and Dame Ellen MacArthur and Dee Caffari. The personal achievements by these determined characters live on in history long after the voyage is over.

Although crossing the seems a small step in comparison with the achievements of these great adventurers, for me it will be an enormous challenge as my previous experience is limited to crossing the Channel!

Needless to say, a great deal of training and study will be required by me over the next few months to ensure I reach the level of knowledge and sailing skill required.

I am taking the opportunity while crossing the to raise money and indeed awareness for our industry specific charity the Furnishing Industry Trust, known as .

Our charity was established over 100 years ago to support people in the who have been employed in our furnishings industry with practical help. We give weekly grants to help with ongoing financial hardship, and one-off payments for respite breaks and holidays, mobility aids, (for example wheelchairs) for people suffering critical or long term illness. is also developing grants to provide students with university bursaries to cover some of the costs of furnishing industry related courses.

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My ambitions are to cross the and to raise £10,000 for and I hope that you can help. Every donation, large or small, will enable to give grants and payments to some of the most deserving and needy people in the . I hope the words of two of the people we help will inspire you to visit my page on www.justforgiving.com

”The allowance you pay me allows me to have a few things I would not be able to have. This year I had a big expense with my central heating boiler having to be replaced which was hard for me, so your allowance really helps me.”

“The case worker who visited us on behalf of could not believe we were managing on such a small amount of money. When the grant arrived we were thrilled, We could begin to live again instead of simply existing.”