Pirates on the Thames
Back in 2017 a group of Feeding Dream Supporters from Bristol set out on a formidable challenge, to visit and have a drink in 20 of the best and most historical pubs of London, all on foot and in just 12 hours, could it be done ? YES, and we returned home tired, and happy in the knowledge that this sponsored event had raised money for a great cause.
Some 2 years later we were keen to go to London again and try something slightly different. This time 12 men, set out for 12 pints, in 12 historical London riverside pubs in 12 hours. It should be said at this point that all persons, thereafter known as the “Dirty Dozen” paid all their own transport and beer costs. The planning took some time as we had to reconcile coach timetables, tube, and riverboat ferries. We also planned to provide a live WhatsApp broadcast of our progress to our supporters as we moved around London.
We boarded the boat at Westminster pier to take us down the river to the first pub. Whilst in the shadow of the Houses of Parliament the Dirty Dozen started to “Pirate up” and by the time we had passed St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London, the dozen had changed in to full pirate costume with a mind to relieve passengers of cash for Feeding Dreams. Also somewhere along the way we were joined by Elvis the singing gorilla. It all added to the general fun and provided a means to engage with people and tell them why we were doing this.
During the day these men visited 12 of the best riverside pubs with historical interest. In addition to a small informative speech delivered at the pub before entry, the information was (through the magic of technology) transmitted out to a great many people who had pledged contributions from all round the world. We were aware that our progress was being followed in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, Canada, USA and about six countries in Europe. We were a global phenomenon !
The whole day was a great success and we returned on the train back to Bristol satisfied and a little sleepy. We were pleased to receive feedback that so many were enjoying the commentary. Our aim was to raise about £3,000, at the time of writing this report the total stands at over £5,300. So thank you to all the pirates, and our sponsors across the globe, we will now start thinking about other inventive ways of fund raising.
Regards to all from “The Dirty Dozen”
*Details of the pubs visited are available upon request to any interested persons.
