Alan Thornewill, a 60-year-old Royal Navy veteran, is embarking on a bold and unconventional fundraising mission: pedal 126 miles along the River Thames in a swan-shaped pedalo. Setting off on Friday, April 24, from Lechlade, Alan aims to complete a journey equivalent to nearly five marathons within seven days, navigating four counties before reaching Teddington Lock on Thursday, April 30.
A former Navy serviceman with 22 years of service under his belt, Alan’s naval career saw global deployments to destinations such as the Falklands, Sierra Leone, and Antarctica. Now, he is channeling his determination into raising funds for Combat Stress, a charity dedicated to helping ex-service members cope with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges, as well as supporting the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Alan describes his challenge as “completely barking,” admitting he often questions, “What have I done now?” Yet, his resolve shines through: if pedaling a swan pedalo down the Thames sparks conversations and support for these essential organizations, then every mile will be worth it. With a touch of military dark humor, he adds, “We’d much rather raise a glass with you than to you,” emphasizing his mission to raise awareness about mental health among veterans and encourage them to seek help early.
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After enduring high-pressure deployments and the difficult transition back to civilian life, Alan himself faced mental health hurdles and sought support. He recalls, “I went to see my doctor with physical signs of stress and was referred to the NHS, which was woefully unprepared at the time for veterans’ mental health needs.” Alan highlights the widespread stigma among veterans, a “stiff-upper-lip” generation hesitant to ask for help, underscoring the importance of outreach. “Invisible injuries can be just as challenging as physical ones. Having support—whether for mental health struggles or when facing the dangers at sea—can mean the difference between sinking and surviving.”
Alan’s pilgrimage will be shared with friends, family, and fellow veterans, who will join him aboard the pedalo throughout the week. Two of his old shipmates will pedal alongside him on Sunday, and volunteers from the Army, Navy, and Marines will take turns supporting the effort. Alan welcomes the camaraderie and fresh energy, joking, “If I can finish the week with my knee still in the middle of my leg, I’ll be happy.”
Each day, Alan and his companions plan to cover nearly 20 miles, pedaling for about eight hours toward London. A unique tradition will see them mooring outside a different pub every lunchtime to share the daily Royal Navy toast with visitors, further raising awareness and community spirit.
So far, Alan has raised over £3,850 and aims to reach a £5,000 target. Every donation helps Combat Stress and the RNLI continue their vital work.
Alan gratefully acknowledges the generosity of donors and the growing conversation about mental health in the armed forces community. His unconventional pedalo journey is not only a test of endurance but also a beacon of hope and support for veterans facing invisible battles.