LISTEN AGAIN: Popular Joe Way Paddle for Life returns to celebrate what would have been his 21st birthday

Thursday, 23 January 2025 21:09

The father of a Newquay boy who died in 2008, has spoken of the reasons his family want to bring back a much loved Newquay event.

The Joe Way Paddle for Life, which has raised over £180,000 for charities, returns this summer after a break of five years.

Joe was born with a rare genetic condition called Angelman's syndrome. After surviving meningitis, a potentially deadly skin reaction called Steven Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and numerous superbugs, he sadly died in 2008. He was 4 years old.

In the months following Joe’s passing, Newquay lifeguards organised the first Joe Way Memorial Paddle, launching what would become an annual tradition. Joe’s father, Matt Way, said:

"The last event was so good, we were nervous to go for it again. However, the Lions, Surf Life Saving Cornwall, and previous Paddle supporters were fully in favour, as were new supporters. It’s always been a fun community event and a great way to celebrate Joe’s short but impactful life."

The return of the event comes as the Way family marks a poignant milestone -Joe would have turned 21 in 2024. His mother, Claire Way, said:

"Joe would have been 21 last September, so the daily memories are magnified. With what everyone has been through over the last four years, it feels right to mark this milestone and spread some goodwill across the community."

The 2025 Paddle for Life promises a packed afternoon and evening with skydivers from Cornwall Skydive landing on Towan Beach with Joe’s flag, live music, food stands, and charity stalls, a live performance by Titan the Robot, the RNLI beach lifeguards memorial paddle, over 200 paddlers competing in the harbour and a DJ set at Newquay Rowing Club to cap off the event.

The event is organised in partnership with Newquay Towan Blystra Lions Club and Surf Life Saving Cornwall, with generous support from local businesses. Four long-time supporters - Start and Co, Pitched Web Design, St Columb Financial Services, and Henwood Funeral Directors - have already pledged £500 each, kickstarting the fundraising with £2,000.

To find out more, sponsor the event, or stay up to date, visit www.joewaypaddle.co.uk.

PRESS PLAY to hear Matt Way talking to Mark Chapple on Radio Newquay Breakfast...