More than £3,000 was raised for the Wetwheels Foundation on 13 April at the hugely successful Big Boat Jumble, held at Eastleigh Football Club and delivered in partnership with organisers Squidward 3 and charity partners Pantaenius UK.

Hundreds of boating enthusiasts turned out to buy and sell second-hand marine gear, grab a bargain and, most importantly, support a cause that makes boating accessible to all. Proceeds from pitch fees, admissions and generous on-the-day donations will help fund barrier-free powerboating experiences for disabled and disadvantaged people through Wetwheels’ national fleet of fully accessible boats.

Team organiser, Darren McKell from Squidward 3, said: “I had the idea of a boat jumble to raise funds for the Wetwheels Foundation, a charity close to our hearts. As ambassadors for brands like Suzuki, Lowrance and Shimano, and with regular time on the water onboard Squidward 3, we have seen how fishing and boating boost mental health. Wetwheels offers that same joy to those who might never have the chance, which really struck a chord. Pantaenius jumped at the idea and, through their link with Eastleigh Football Club, helped secure a venue and build a plan.

“The marine community’s support was incredible – with raffle prizes donated by Pantaenius, Suzuki, Lowrance, Mendez Marine, Spinlock, Railblaza, Cox & Rawle, Mustang Survival, and many more. But the biggest thanks go to everyone who came, booked pitches, bought tickets and showed support. We raised a fantastic amount for an amazing cause – and can’t wait to make next year even bigger!”

With everything from winches and wetsuits to ropes, radios and rare finds on offer, the jumble was as much a community celebration as it was a fundraiser. The car park was busy from start to finish, creating a fantastic atmosphere with a shared purpose – to give more people the freedom and joy of being on the water.

Wetwheels founder Geoff Holt MBE said: “We were delighted to be involved with the Big Boat Jumble. With Pantaenius UK already a major supporter and our mutual fishing friend Darren McKell behind the idea, everything clicked from day one. Darren did an amazing job organising the event from scratch – the Eastleigh Football Club venue was perfect, and it was fantastic to see so many familiar faces turn out to sell boating bargains and raise money for our cause. £3,000 is a huge amount, and on behalf of all the trustees and Wetwheels operators, a massive thank you to everyone who attended – buyers, sellers and sponsors – and to those who donated some amazing raffle prizes.”

Pantaenius UK played a key role in the event, with a well-stocked pitch and strong industry backing. Simon Hedley Head of Commercial Partnerships, said: “When Darren approached us with the idea, we were keen to support however we could. Wetwheels has been our national inclusivity charity partner for years, and we love what they do to promote barrier-free boating. We were blown away by the generosity of industry friends – Spinlock, Lewmar, Highfield RIBs and SMG Group – who donated raffle prizes and stock for our stand. The funds raised will make a real difference.”

For more information or to support the Wetwheels mission, visit: www.wetwheelsfoundation.org

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