To mark his 60th birthday, Stephen Spencer is embarking on an extraordinary challenge: cycling 1,034 miles across the UK to raise funds for The Wave Project and shine a light on the life-changing impact of Surf Therapy.
Stephen has been a cornerstone of The Wave Project for eight years, volunteering across the charity’s hubs in Dunbar, St Andrews and, more recently, at Lost Shore in Edinburgh. From 16 July, he’ll take on Wheels, Waves & Stories, a challenge Stephen has decided to take on to raise £60,000 for The Wave Project.
Over the course of the summer, Stephen plans to visit all 16 The Wave Project locations across the UK. Starting in Bristol, he’ll cycle over 1,034 miles, from Fistral Beach to the Isle of Wight, and from Scarborough to St Andrews in Scotland, finishing at Lost Shore in
Edinburgh. Along the way, he will share stories and get into the sea to support young surfers and connect with the incredible volunteer teams who make it all happen.
The Wave Project is the UK’s leading Surf Therapy charity, supporting children and young people to improve their mental health through the power of surfing and community. The charity’s evidence-based programmes help young people build confidence, reduce anxiety and feel more connected, all while being supported by a dedicated team of trained volunteers. What began in Cornwall has grown into a national network, delivering Surf Therapy sessions across the country.
Stephen comments: “This journey isn’t about me, it’s about every surfer, their families, our volunteers, partner surf schools and the funders who make the magic of The Wave Project a reality. I already know this community is Different Gravy! and I’m on a mission to find out exactly why.”
Viv Williamson, Head of Fundraising at The Wave Project adds: “Stephen’s journey is an amazing reminder of what this charity is all about: community, connection and a shared belief that we can change young lives through the power of surfing. From the moment he shared his plans, our whole team has rallied behind him, making sure he has a bed for the night, something to eat and a Surf Therapy session to join at every stop. We hope people across the UK will get behind Stephen too, whether by donating, sharing his story, or cheering him on as he pedals his way across the UK.”
For more information about Stephen’s challenge and how you can support, visit waveproject.co.uk or follow the journey on social media @waveprojectuk
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