Olly left Katveik in Holland on Monday night as part of a four man team who planned the crossing to commemorate the voyage of the Engerlandvaarders – Dutch men who attempted to escape the Nazi occupation during World War II by kayaking to the UK coast to join the allied forces. During the war, 35 man attempted the crossing but only 8 made it to shore.

Two Dutch marines also joined the British men to make the crossing. Sadly, due to the gruelling crossing, Olly was the only UK team member to complete the crossing, along with the Dutch marines, and kayaked to Sizewell beach to crowds of waiting fans and press.

Prince Harry, a strong supporter of the expedition arrived at Sizewell beach to welcome the kayak team, but sadly had to be called back to his training and just missed their beach landing. He spent some time talking to the Dutch and English families of the kayak team, and said:

"I am truly amazed at what the Engelandvaarder team have achieved in the past couple of days.To have kayaked across the open water of the North Sea, in weather that at  times reached force five, is an extraordinary thing to have done. That the team - British and Dutch - have done so 70 years to within a few weeks after the gallant original Engelandvaarder undertook their legendary ordeal, serves as a fitting memorial to them all and in particular those who gave their lives during the crossing in 1941. It is appropriate that today's endeavour should be in support of Combat Stress, which does so much to help our young servicemen and women."