Islander takes on triathlon in lockdown

An islander who was unable to walk on his own just six months ago is taking on a triathlon in his care home gym.

65-year-old Paul Rayner has been a resident at Jersey Cheshire Home for four years.

He is hoping to run, cycle and row the distance between Jersey and Portsmouth - where his parents live - to be there 'virtually' for their birthdays in June.

He has already rowed from Jersey to Carteret, and cycled from Carteret to Ouistreham.

On Friday (24 April) he started the final and most gruelling part of his challenge, rowing across the Channel.

In 2012, Paul had a fall and suffered a bleed to his brain on holiday but he is determined not to let it hold him back.

He has taken on this lockdown exercise challenge to raise money for Jersey Cheshire Home.

His physiotherapist says the funds are especially important during this Covid-19 crisis.

In the meantime, the challenge is also helping Paul battle his lockdown boredom, as he cannot see his family and friends.

Like all care homes, the Cheshire Home has stopped visits to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

If you want to donate to Paul, click here.

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