7 August 2009
Two adventurous Kiwi carpenters are taking on the challenge of paddling across the English Channel to raise money for the charity, the Mental Health Foundation. But this is no ordinary attempt, as they take on one of the world’s busiest shipping channels in a boat made entirely out of plastic bottles.
Five months in the making, the “Boatle” is the creation of London-based pair Marcel Syron (aged 31) and Cameron Holm (aged 28).
The bottle-boat hybrid was set to make its maiden voyage on 15 September to France, in the company of a support boat, with the pair hoping to raise £1,000. However adverse weather conditions have delayed the pair. An update is due soon as to when the next attempt will take place.
Marcel, who lives in Hackney, and Cameron who lives in Kilburn, estimate it will take around 10 hours to make the crossing, giving them £100 for each hour of pain.
Recycling a pile of old plastic bottles into a boat is not necessarily the first thing that springs to most people’s minds, but for carpenters Marcel and Cameron it seemed like a natural step. That was after they discounted building a plastic bottle house.
Vigorous water trials
As with any new sailing vessel, Boatle has undergone vigorous water trials to check its design, make modifications and ensure it floats with two strapping lads sitting in it!
After several trips paddling up and down the canals of London to the general bemusement of the public, Boatle made its first appearance on the high seas off Brighton Beach. An ingenious mix of 500 plastic bottles, expanding foam and wooden seats (comfort is a priority), the Boatle is now ready to face the challenge of the high seas.
“Only got one shot at this”
Marcel said:
“We chose the Mental Health Foundation because it stood out as a really good charity and mental health is something that everyone can relate to at some time. We decided to cross the Channel, because it’s one of those crazy things that we can look back on and have a giggle about when we’re old. I’ve actually only got one shot at this too, as I’m leaving the UK to go back to New Zealand just after the challenge.”
Celia Richardson, the Mental Health Foundation’s Fundraising Director, said:
“Marcel and Cameron are the most innovative fundraisers we’ve met and our fingers are crossed that they’re going to make it across the water.”
The Mental Health Foundation uses research and practical projects to help people survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. We work to influence policy, including government at the highest levels. And we use our knowledge to raise awareness and to help tackle the stigma attached to mental illness. We reach millions of people every year through our media work, information booklets and online services.
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