RSM’s James Cope raises more than £8.5k for RNLI

By Sam Pither

23 December 2022

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James Cope, an Associate Director in RSM UK’s Guildford office, has done more than half a million press-ups since the start of lockdowns in March 2020, raising over £8,500 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution along the way.

Each day James added an extra press-up to his routine, reaching 1,000 press-ups in one day by the end of the challenge, taking him to a cumulative 500,500. On day 100 James dedicated the challenge to the RNLI in thanks for rescuing him and his father in Devon around 14 years ago.

Along with losing more than four stone, James has had to overcome three bouts of Coronavirus and a number of ailments, including a torn bicep and abdominal and wrist injuries, along the way.

James completed his final day at the Chiswick Lifeboat Station, cheered on by RNLI volunteers and staff.

James Cope said: ‘It’s been an incredible challenge, and not one that I am ever likely to repeat! The feeling of having now reached day 1,000 is a huge relief and reminds me of when the brave volunteer crew of the Salcombe RNLI came to the aid of my father and I.

“It was fantastic to have the support of the RNLI volunteers today, along with my family and friends to cheer me on in my final push! The need to dig deep and push through the numerous barriers over the years, both mental and physical, has been worth it to support the RNLI who show such courage in the face of adversity to help others get out of trouble at sea. This is my ‘thank you’ to them.’

RNLI Fundraising Director Jayne George said: ‘The ingenuity of our supporters never ceases to amaze me, and this is a truly astonishing feat. Fundraisers like James are the lifeblood of the RNLI – the money they raise powers our rescues on beaches and from lifeboat stations. ‘The commitment that James has shown through this challenge is so inspiring and I’d like to thank him for his commitment to our vision to save every one.’

Featured image: James Cope (Centre) with members of the RNLI. Credit: RSM UK

By Sam Pither

Sam is the Regional Editor of Biz News, responsible for both Hampshire and Dorset.

A new recruit to journalism, Sam started writing for the Business Magazine as a freelancer in May of 2022 after completing his degree in English at University College London. His passion for local businesses and ability to tell a story soon caught the attention of the publication’s management team and have led to his meteoric rise.

Sam, who lives in central Reading, takes a particular interest in technology, gaming and food and drink, having been a chef before starting his degree.