Newark Bakkavor workers complete 50km kayak for Newark Emmaus Trust

Two workers at a desserts factory have completed a 50km kayak for Newark Emmaus Trust.

Tom Byrne and Jonathon Wheatley, who work at Bakkavor Desserts Newark, completed the challenge along the River Witham from Lincoln to Boston, rowing the distance in just over 12 hours.

The adventurous pair came up with the challenge to test their endurance, discover parts of Lincolnshire they hadn’t seen before and, more importantly, raise money for Newark Emmaus Trust — a charity that supports the town’s young homeless.

The trust is Newark Bakkavor employee forum’s chosen charity for 2021.

Tom and Jonathon started the challenge at 5.45am from Lincoln Marina and paddled down the River Witham through Fiskerton and countless other villages before reaching Boston Marina at 6.15pm.

The colleagues raised more than £1,000 for the charity.

They hoped donations would continue to flood in.

Shona Taylor, business director, said: “As a business, Bakkavor Desserts Newark is passionate about supporting our local communities wherever possible, whether it is through time or raising well-needed funds.

“This latest challenge is just one of the great ways we have been able to do this and it’s great that Bakkavor is also matching the total raised.”

Nicole Burley, chief executive of the Newark Emmaus Trust, said: “Bakkavor Desserts Newark have been a keen supporter of our charity over a number of years, and we are delighted that they organised this testing Kayak Challenge to raise money for us.

“This will enable us to fund activities and workshops for our residents that will enable them to be less isolated after the pandemic and develop key skills for living independently and living a healthier life.

“We are so very grateful for their support and look forward to working with the Bakkavor team over the coming months.”