Win a Signed Guitar from James Morrison: Charity Paddle Returns to Newquay After 5-Year Break

After a five-year break, Newquay’s much-loved Joe Way Paddle for Life charity event is back – and it’s bringing a splash of colour, community spirit and music to the harbour this summer.

The event will return on the afternoon and evening of Thursday 26th June at Newquay harbour, marking what would have been Joe Way’s 21st birthday last September. Joe, a local boy born with a rare genetic condition called Angelman’s Syndrome, died in May 2008 aged just 4. He was known by many as a “miracle boy” after surviving meningitis, the rare and severe skin reaction Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and multiple superbugs. He sadly passed away from complete organ failure following a second bout of SJS.

A powerful legacy

In September 2008, just months after Joe’s passing, Newquay lifeguards launched the first memorial paddle in his name. That event evolved into the Joe Way Paddle for Life, which ran annually for 11 years and supported more than 20 different charities. Nearly £180,000 was raised through the Paddles and almost 100 other fundraising events.

The event had to pause in 2020 due to the pandemic and personal challenges faced by the Way family. Now, with the backing of Newquay Towan Blystra Lions Club, Surf Life Saving Cornwall and loyal supporters old and new, the event is ready to return.

Joe’s dad, Matt Way, a member of Newquay Towan Blystra Lions Club, said:

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

Star-studded support and online draw

Singer-songwriter James Morrison and his family have been strong supporters of the Paddle since it began. This year, James has donated a signed guitar and photos for an online draw which also includes:

• An original painting of Newquay harbour by Doug Hindge

• Signed canvas prints of surfing legends Ben Skinner, Tom Butler, and UK champion Lukas Skinner

• And much more

To enter the draw and support the cause, visit:
👉 https://go.rallyup.com/joewaypaddleforlife2025

The family are encouraging as many people as possible to share the link on social media to mark Joe’s birthday and raise money for local charities.

What to expect on the day

This year’s Paddle for Life will feature all the favourites:

• Cornwall Skydive skydivers landing on Towan Beach while flying Joe’s flag

• Live music from Lee Quinney sings, Oll an Gwella, and Amplify southwest DJ sets

• Around 400 paddlers taking part

• An RNLI beach lifeguards memorial paddle

• Charity stalls, food stands and community fun

The day promises to be a powerful mix of celebration, remembrance and giving back.

To stay updated and see what’s planned, visit the official event website:
👉 www.joewaypaddle.co.uk