Mitch and Ben in charity fundraising duel for best fish SUPper 2013

Matthew Vizard
Authored by Matthew Vizard
Posted: Wednesday, September 18, 2013 - 16:29

Devon restaurateur and food writer Mitch Tonks and Plymouth restaurant and boat owner Ben Squire will be doing battle in a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) race on Friday morning (20 September), to raise money for the Marine Conservation Society (MCS).

Mitch, who opened his RockFish Plymouth restaurant at Sutton Harbour this year, will compete on a 100m course in front of the Mayflower Steps against Ben, who runs The Boathouse Café on Commercial Wharf and Plymouth Boat Trips.

“This sounded like so much fun I couldn't resist and have always loved watersports - although I’m a bit out of practice,” said Mitch. “It’s great to be doing something fun with other restaurateurs in Plymouth and something that helps a good cause.”

Mitch and Ben accepted the challenge thrown down to them by Conrad Humphreys, organiser of the Ecover Blue Mile, which was held in Plymouth last weekend to raise funds for the MCS, which is the event’s charity partner.

Weather conditions permitting, the race will take place at 9.15am on Friday morning to coincide with the start of the first ever Plymouth Seafood Festival which is part of the city’s Ocean City Festival.

People making donations online are also being asked to state who they think will win.

Conrad said: “I think it might be quite competitive! My money is on Ben, unless he falls in!

“It will be great fun and it’s for a charity – the MCS – that we all support for the work it does for our seas, beaches, marine life and for sustainable fishing.

“We’re hoping for a big crowd to come down to the Mayflower Steps and cheer on Mitch and Ben.”

To donate online, visit the fundraising page:

www.thebluemile.org

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