TWO brothers who grew up in Yeoford are aiming to set the record for the fastest crossing of the English Channel by stand-up paddleboard in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital. 

Pharmacist Dave Masson, 36, and osteopath Josh Masson, 31, who went to Queen Elizabeth's Community College in Crediton, will attempt to cover 27 nautical miles from Dover to Calais next week (commencing Monday, June 10). 

They have chosen to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, one of the top five children’s hospitals in the world, as Dave Masson had groundbreaking open-heart surgery lasting 18 hours there when he was just two days old. 

Dave Masson underwent groundbreaking open-heart surgery when he was just two days old
Dave underwent groundbreaking open-heart surgery when he was just two days old (Contributed)

“My life began with a challenge,” Dave said. 

“Against the odds, I survived, thanks to the pioneering efforts of the medical staff.  

“This life-changing experience, coupled with ongoing support and care from GOSH, has deeply shaped my perspective. 

“Not only do I owe my life to GOSH, but my son also receives specialised care there, underscoring the profound impact this institution has had on my family.  

“Moreover, I am acutely aware of the uncertainties that lie ahead, as I face the likelihood of further heart surgeries due to complications from my condition. 

“Despite the challenges life has thrown my way, including a debilitating car accident that left me in a wheelchair and required multiple surgeries to recover, I am determined to give back. 

“Together with Josh, we aim to raise both funds and awareness for GOSH, ensuring that future generations receive the same level of exceptional care that I have experienced. 

“Our record-breaking attempt is not just about physical endurance; it's about resilience, gratitude and paying homage to the institution that has played such a pivotal role in our lives.” 

Dave now lives outside Chudleigh and has been paddleboarding for around four years. Josh, who lives in Crediton, has been paddleboarding for the last six months.  

Guinness World Records has accepted their application to attempt to set the record, and they will soon take to the waves.  

The brothers have raised just over £800 at the time of writing with a target of £2,000. 

If you would like to donate to their fundraiser, you can visit their JustGiving page online here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/dave-josh-masson-1710168417831. 

There are world records for the fastest crossings of the English Channel by prone paddleboard, but not by stand-up paddleboard. 

Mark Walton from Ireland achieved the fastest crossing of the English Channel by prone paddleboard in three hours, 54 minutes and 50 seconds on October 2, 2023. 

American Michael O'Shaughnessy achieved the fastest continuous crossing of the English Channel by prone paddleboard in five hours and nine minutes on July 18, 2006.