Woman's Epic Paddleboard Challenge for Charity

A freelance travel writer from Suffolk, Natasha Sones, is undertaking an ambitious 162-mile paddleboard challenge. This ten-day expedition will traverse Britain's longest single canal, beginning in Liverpool this Friday. Sones plans to cover 15 to 20 miles daily, dedicating six hours to paddling across Lancashire and Manchester.

The journey continues along a 127-mile stretch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, concluding in Goole on the Humber Estuary. Sones aims to be among the first 13 individuals to complete this coastal challenge by paddleboard. She has been training rigorously for the demanding physical exertion, including carrying necessary equipment.

This endeavor is not only a personal achievement but also a significant fundraising effort for the Canal & River Trust and Surfers Against Sewage. Sones is also raising awareness about critical environmental issues such as plastic pollution and the protection of native water-based wildlife. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining accessible blue spaces for everyone's benefit.

Sones expressed excitement about exploring new waterways, particularly the scenic routes in the North West, which will be her first time paddleboarding in the region. She will navigate through Greater Manchester and Lancashire, facing unique challenges like paddling through a mile-long tunnel at Foulridge. Friends and fellow paddlers will join her for portions of the route.