The Guernsey and Alderney Ambulance and Rescue Service’s extraordinary floating car challenge has successfully reached Sark today, marking another major milestone in a unique fundraising effort supporting the vital Flying Christine III service.
The challenge has captured the imagination of islanders across the Bailiwick and beyond, recreating a remarkable fundraising feat first undertaken in 1992 when a group sailed a car to Sark to help raise funds for Flying Christine III before the vessel had even been built. The original journey was completed in just over two hours, becoming a memorable part of local fundraising history.
At the heart of the 2026 challenge is Brother Paul Phillips of Victor Carey Lodge and the Light Blues Club, who was part of the original 1992 adventure and has worked tirelessly to bring the challenge back to life more than three decades later. Together with fellow supporters and volunteers, Paul has helped oversee the transformation of a car into a seaworthy craft, complete with an outboard motor and buoyancy modifications, enabling it to travel between the islands in aid of a worthy cause.
The fundraising effort began with a charity car pull through St Peter Port before the specially adapted vehicle was launched into the water. Since then, the team have continued their island-hopping challenge, successfully completing the latest stage of their journey with today’s crossing to Sark.
The challenge is raising funds to help keep Flying Christine III maintained and operational, ensuring it can continue providing its essential lifeline service across the Bailiwick. The vessel plays a crucial role in transporting paramedics to the islands and bringing sick and injured patients to Guernsey when they require further treatment.
The adventure is also being undertaken in memory of John Vaudin, a friend and former crew member, making this fundraising effort even more meaningful for those involved.
Guernsey and Alderney Freemasons would like to offer their heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved, particularly Brother Paul Phillips, whose passion, dedication and determination have been instrumental in making this remarkable fundraiser a reality. The successful arrival in Sark is a testament to the hard work of the entire team and the tremendous support they have received from the local community.
Donations are still being welcomed to support Flying Christine III and help ensure this invaluable service continues serving the Bailiwick for years to come.
To support the challenge and make a donation, please visit:
https://givealittle.co/c/6l60q198Za20X43S05Y9Wc
What started as a memorable challenge in 1992 has once again become an inspiring example of community spirit, friendship and fundraising, with a car successfully crossing the sea and making its way to Sark for a very worthy cause.
