A former paratrooper from Richmond is paddling 200 kilometres without a break in a determined bid to raise funds for charity.

Keen kayaker Joel Whittaker, who lives in the town near Church Road, sets off on his biggest challenge yet on Friday (August 7).

He aims to arrive at Richmond Bridge on Sunday morning when he will call it mission complete.

After leaving the Parachute Regiment in 2004, Joel, who celebrated his 45th birthday this week, worked in the media in war zones - and met his journalist wife in Libya.

He is kayaking the Thames for Bravehound, a charity which is close to his heart and aiming to raise £5,000 via an online fundraising drive.

Joel will provide updates on how the kayak is going via his Instagram. He explains all about his challenge below.

It should take 40 hours of non-stop paddling to get from Cricklade, near the source of the River Thames, to Richmond by kayak. That's just over 200 kilometers, it will be the longest journey I have ever attempted with my trusty kayak.

So why am I doing it? To raise awareness for a cause that is more urgent today than ever and to raise funds for a charity that does incredible work.

The cause is mental health, which is an issue that I increasingly see affecting us all. As a high-risk manager for a major broadcaster I see the challenges that my colleagues are dealing with.

As a veteran, I see the deep wounds that war and selfless service leave behind. But I also see others around me struggle with the day-to-day challenges of work, family and relationships.

No matter what our background, mental health will be a factor in all our lives at some point.

I believe there are some key tenants to sound mental health – exercise, routine, and love. Bravehound is a charitable organisation that offers all three by carefully placing dogs with veterans who are suffering with mental health issues.

The responsibility of caring for a dog can help them see past their own struggles, even if they don't much feel like caring for themselves. It also offers much-needed routine and exercise, because dogs need both as much as we do.

As a former Paratrooper, I'm used to physical trials, but kayaking the length of the River Thames continuously for 40 hours is a challenge I suspect no one has tried before – for a reason.

So, this August, keep your eyes on the river and, if you see me lumbering past, give a wave. Or better yet, give what you can to Bravehound.

Find us on social media

Join the conversation on our Facebook page