TWO brothers braved stormy seas during a gruelling, nine-week voyage around Britain to raise money for Havens Hospice.


Craig and Dean Osler set off from Wallasea Island in the Rochford District on June 2 on their yacht Nebula to circumnavigate the British coast.

On their travels they docked at Falmouth, Loch Ness and Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland among many others before they returned to Wallesea.


The duo raised almost £5,000 sailing 2,200 miles.


Despite some stormy seas over a wet and windy summer, the brothers successfully sailed a total of 2200 miles in nine weeks.

Dean, 32, from Eastwood, said: “The weather was so awful at times, I didn’t think we were going to make it. It would have been easy to give up but I just thought of why we were doing it and kept going. I help to maintain the nurse call systems at Fair Havens Hospice, and have seen first hand the work they do - it is so special. This was my way of saying thank you.”


Craig, 39, from Hullbridge, added: “This was the longest I’ve been away from my family and at times it was really hard. Dean and I get on really well, we have never had an argument before, but then we had never been trapped on a small boat together either! It really tested our relationship but we have come through stronger than ever.

“I am so proud of what we have achieved, and I know the money we’ve raised will make a real difference to our community, and the families that the charity look after.”

Craig and Dean regularly updated a blog of their adventure, with videos, photos and stories which can be found at www.nebula1234.tumblr.com. Supporters can make a donation to their efforts at http://www.justgiving.com/dean-craig-osler .

Hilary Metcalfe, community fundraiser for the hospices, said: “ I can’t thank the boys enough. What they have achieved is very special. Every penny they have raised is making every day count for the families we care for and they have had an experience of a lifetime - it doesn’t get much better than that!”


For more information about fundraising for Havens Hospices call Hilary Metcalfe on 07891 514187, email hmetcalfe@havenshospices.org.uk or visit www.havenshospices.org.uk .