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Last Updated: Wednesday, 26 May, 2004, 12:22 GMT 13:22 UK
Kayak policeman's shark encounter
Sean Morley
Sean Morley started his record bid on 3 April
A police officer from Cornwall who is attempting to travel around the British Isles in a sea kayak is now five days ahead of schedule.

Thirty-eight-year-old Sean Morley has now reached the Aran Islands on the west coast of Ireland having travelled over 1,700 miles in 53 days.

During his journey he has encountered porpoises, seals and basking sharks.

He is raising money for the RNLI and the Marine Conservation Society during the trip which should take six months.

'Unmistakable fin'

The traffic police officer from St Erth said seeing the largest shark found in UK waters has been the highlight of the trip so far.

He said: "Suddenly I saw the unmistakable dorsal fin and tail of a basking shark, then another, and another.

"I was so excited as I have only seen a basking shark once before.

"Here there were three in close proximity, less than 200 metres from the shore, just working the gentle current to and fro.

"I know they are harmless, but even so, my heart was in my mouth."

Lifeboat men from stations along the route are passing on food parcels and occasionally putting Sergeant Morley up for the night.

He has a target of 183 days to complete the journey, a total distance in excess of 4,200 miles.


SEE ALSO:
Kayak man to meet wife in Dublin
08 May 04  |  Cornwall
Kayak man reaches next target
04 May 04  |  Cornwall
Kayak record bid makes progress
24 Apr 04  |  Cornwall
Policeman sets off on solo kayak
03 Apr 04  |  Cornwall


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