
Walmer volunteer takes on epic challenge for the RNLI
RNLI volunteer helm Dan Sinclair and friend Nathan Siddans are preparing to take on a gruelling self-funded charity challenge in October 2025.
The pair will be cycling the length of the UK from John o’ Groats to Land’s End, as part of their route, they will detour to summit the three peaks – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) – adding more than 11,000 feet of elevation on foot to their cycle ride.
Dan and Nathan will set off at 6am on Monday 6th October 2025 from John o’ Groats and aim to arrive at Land’s End by Wednesday 15th October, covering more than 1,000 miles. They will complete the challenge, carrying their gear, with no support vehicle and all accommodation booked in advance.
All funds raised will go directly to the RNLI, supporting its vital work to save lives at sea. The pair are self-funding the entire journey, ensuring 100% of donations go straight to the charity.
Dan said: ‘I’ve been volunteer crew at Walmer Lifeboat Station for 17 years.
‘This charity means everything to me – we respond in all weathers, day and night, to help people in trouble at sea.
‘The RNLI has just passed 200 years of lifesaving, and we want to do our bit to help keep that going strong for the future.’
Nathan isn’t a crew member, but he’s hugely passionate about the RNLI and shares the same drive to support the cause.
Nathan added: ‘We’ve planned in all our training, and we can’t wait to get going.
‘The RNLI is there for anyone who needs help at sea – I’m inspired by the crew and want to make sure they can keep doing that for generations to come.
‘Every donation, no matter how small, will help save lives.’
To donate and follow Dan and Nathan’s progress, visit:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/dan-sinclair-6
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.