Fundraiser of the Month: Rocks N’ Groynes

What’s the fundraising challenge you set yourself and why? 

The Rocks N’ Groynes are an Acappella Sea Shanty group from the small seaside town of Lee on the Solent in Hampshire formed in 2022. The members come from a variety of backgrounds, retired Navy and Police officers and local businessmen. Ages range from 30’s to late 70’s.

One of the founder members, Trevor Ricketts, was already involved in fundraising for Children with Cancer UK, running a Summer in Lee Music event in the town and as a result of this, the Rocks N’ Groynes decided to make Children with Cancer UK their adopted charity. In 2023 the Rocks N Groynes raised £2000.

At the groups weekly practice night in January 2024, Trevor set us the target of raising £5000. Sadly, Trevor passed away in February 2024, leaving the group devastated. However, two days after his death the boys performed at Caffe Lee in their hometown and started their task of raising the money.

How much money have you raised so far?

In January 2025, the Rocks N’ Groynes handed over a cheque for £7500 to Children with Cancer UK, exceeding the target set by 50%.

How’s your challenge going? If it’s completed – how did you find it?

Throughout 2024, the boys performed a various Pubs, Clubs, and Bars, as well as on HMS Warrior, the Explosion Museum in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and the Trafalgar nights and Pickle night at HMS Collingwood. They are ably supported by their WAGS (Wives and Girlfriends) ‘The Rockettes’, who help with fundraising by persuading the public to part with their cash! Trevor’s wife Gillian is still very much part of the Rockettes.

The group has expanded to nine members and is much, much more than just a singing group to its members. The ‘Boys’ meet every week for singing practice, a good chat, laughter and a few beers, their Motto is ‘Shanties, Beer, Friendship and Community’.

The Rocks N’ Groynes are: John (Capt Greybeard) Gledhill, Jim (Clarkie) Clarke, Jonathan (Digit) Moore, John (Spider) Webb, Mick (Tutts) Tuttiett, Andy (The Banker) Kern, Brian (Cabin boy) Savory, Sam (Strummer) Gledhill, and Brett (Clumper) Wilde

What would you say to anyone else who is considering taking on a fundraising challenge? 

Children with Cancer UK is one of the best charities in the country when is comes down to the ratio of management, cost to funding of research, and helping children with cancer. Raising money for Children with Cancer UK is very rewarding and the group is committed to continuing to raise funds for this fantastic charity.

If you would like to raise money in aid of Children with Cancer UK, we’ll help you every step of the way.  Start fundraising today