A doctor took on an epic paddle boarding challenge to raise awareness of cystic fibrosis.

Will Verling, a paediatric consultant from Dorset County Hospital faced miles of open ocean, navigating past ships, turtles and even killer whales, when he took part in the Celtic Crossing.

The Celtic Crossing is billed as Europe’s toughest open ocean paddle boarding race and saw Will cross navigate the Atlantic waters from the Scilly Isles to Sennen Cove in Cornwall on a 12 foot surfboard.

“I’ve windsurfed all my life but only ever paddle boarded at an amateur level for a few years,” Will said. “But I wanted to do something that was going to be a challenge myself and push me.”

Paddle boarding involves standing on a surfboard and using a single oar to propel it through the water.

The most direct crossing is approximately 32 miles but due to conditions, Will had to complete 36 miles in around ten hours.

Will added it was an ‘epic’ personal challenge and the hardest things he has ever had to do.

“I didn’t see land for seven hours.

“You have to navigate yourself in the right direction, through shipping lanes all while paddling,” he said.

During the crossing Will encountered an array of marine wildlife including turtles, dolphins and even killer whales.

“There was a pod which followed me for some time. One of them was enormous. I was the highlight of my life. Seeing Orcas spontaneously in the wild was just incredible,” he said.

Will completed the challenge to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

“I think because of my involvement with local children, I have seen first hand how challenging the condition is. The trust has been at the forefront of driving research and yielding positive results so I really wanted to raise awareness,” he said.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-limiting genetic condition affecting more than 10,000 people across the UK. It affects the lungs and digestive system and can cause chronic infections and reduced lung function. Currently, half of those with CF will not live past age 41.

So far Will has raised £1,160 for the trust - a figure he hopes will continue to rise.

“My original target was £500 so I’m delighted,” he said.

To support Will visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/will-verling