THE Joe Way Paddle For Life in Newquay raised £4,000 for 21 different charities, organisers have confirmed.
The event was first organised by lifeguards at Fistral beach soon after young Joe Way's death in May 2004, and has attracted more support every year.
Joe was born with a rare genetic condition and died in May 2008 aged 4. He had been labelled a miracle boy after surviving meningitis, a potentially deadly skin reaction, numerous superbugs and complete organ failure.
Since his death his parents have campaigned tirelessly to raise money for a variety of causes in his name, raising more than £117,000 in total.
They were on hand this week to present cheques to the lucky charities.
Matt Way, Joe's dad, said: "We had the best event to date this year and the weather, along with the live music, played a big part in that.
"Bookers had given us the food for the burger van for the third year running and Sarah-Jane and her husband, Martin, cooked for free – this raising an amazing £803."
Other money was raised via entrance money from the paddlers, raffle draw, sales, online donations from inspired people, balloon-making, face-painting, hair-braiding and sponsorship.
Other traders Coastal Crêpes donated £209, Cornwall hospice care raised £203 with cake sales, and the beer donated by Skinner's Ales in the rowing club made £230.
"None of the businesses take any cost for products or labour so the whole event donates 100 per cent of the takings," added Matt.
In all, 21 charities benefitted this year, ranging from the Wave Project, Newquay and Lusty Glaze Surf Life Saving Clubs to the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust and Help For Heroes.
To see what happened at this year's Joe Way Newquay Paddle for Life go to www.joewaypaddle.co.uk
