Keith Avery and his son Sebastion Avery who are both valued on call firefighters based here in Goring carefully planned and scouted out their routes prior to the event as well as using the opportunity to get a feel for the river and the task that lay ahead of them. The pair kayaked the 135 mile stretch over six full days;
Day 1: Cricklade Bridge to The Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge below Rushey Lock (20.7 miles)
Day 2: The Trout Inn to Sandford Lock (24.6 miles
Day 3: Sandford Lock to Goring Lock (24 miles)
Day 4: Goring Lock to Ashton Ferry Lane, Henley’ below Hambledon Lock (22.1 miles)
Day 5: Hambledon Lock to Datchet after Romney Lock (21 miles)
Day 6: Datchet to Teddington Lock, finishing at The Anglers (22.2 miles)
Keith and Sebastian with the Air Ambulance logo
Day 1 the pair got off to a great start at Cricklade Bridge and made their way to Bampton in lovely conditions only stopping for lunch that was provided every day by our fantastic Village Café, and the pair were also very grateful for the lovely huge tart that Pierreponts Café provided to keep them sustained throughout their trip.
Day 2 started with a spot of breakfast, kindly supplied by the Trout Inn at Tadpole Bridge. A steady 24 miles. After stopping for lunch, they finally appreciated the welcoming cheers and a well earned pint thanks to the Kings Arms at Sandford Lock.
Day 3 saw the pair power down the river at great pace. They were delighted to see many friendly faces and supporters along this local stretch, especially at Benson, Wallingford, South Stoke and finally a wonderful welcome as they arrived back into Goring.
Rain showers didn’t stop the pair as they set off from Goring on Day 4 along with some difficult challenges the long tandem kayak provides. More stunning scenery was witnessed on this leg of their journey. ‘Lunch in Reading’ took on a whole new meaning in a kayak as the pair powered along the river to their finishing point at Hambledon Lock.
Keith and Sebastian at Goring Lock Photo Ron Bridle