Veteran sails all around UK coast after horse fall
Reporter A VETERAN who suffered a devastating brain injured has finished a 2,000-mile sailing challenge around the UK coast – and has been nominated for an award to boot.
Alan ‘Al’ Purdy, a former trooper in the Household Cavalry, was left with no memory after falling from his horse on duty.
The 44-year-old spent a year in hospital after ripping his hippocampus, part of the brain which controls cognitive skills, memory and attention span.
Three years ago Al turned to sailing and has been receiving support from Turn to Starboard – a charity that uses sailing to support Armed Forces personnel affected by military operations.
Al, of Ouston, County Durham, joined 15 other veterans in the Round Britain Challenge on board the Spirit of Falmouth – a 92-foot long ship – to raise awareness of veterans.
The team endured ferocious weather conditions, battling huge waves and gusts of up to 40 knots.
The crew left Falmouth in Cornwall at the start of August for the eight-week voyage, navigating the UK coastline and visiting places such as Liverpool, Orkney and Newcastle.
And, they crossed the finish line at Falmouth last week.
Al, who also did the challenge last year, said: “The weather was really rough the whole way around we only really had a couple of nice days and that was when we were in Newcastle.
“It was great to cross the finish line after a what was a difficult journey compared to last year.”
Now, Al has been nominated for a Chronicle Champions award in the Armed Forces category.
The accolade recognises the extraordinary achievements by men or women of our armed forces and any individuals who have dedicated time and effort to help those who serve or have served for our country.
He said: “I’m absolutely ecstatic to have been put forward.
“I have never been put forward for an award before and to be nominated for a Chronicle Champions award – I’m over the moon.”
The awards recognise bravery, devotion and selflessness in unsung heroes across the region.
The winners will be honoured at a glittering awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel, Newcastle Gateshead on December 7.