Brighton train drivers take on relay row for cancer charity

Driver competency manager Richard Quinn, from Portslade, will be in the rowing hotseat with drivers Gary Harman and Richard Brown, from midday on Friday (January 11).

They said they wanted to raise cash for the charity after losing a colleague, and other drivers who work in Southern's teams at Brighton, Eastbourne and Redhill are also undergoing treatment for the disease.

The three drivers are set to take part in the 24-hour non-stop rowathon on Brighton station concourse this Friday and Saturday (January 11 and 12).

Mr Quinn said: “In the past year, five of my direct family members plus work colleagues have been diagnosed or treated for cancer. Sadly, I’ve known of several deaths because of this cruel disease.

"Some of their treatments were discovered by the work of Cancer Research UK. To show my gratitude and help support further research programmes, I’m taking on this epic challenge to raise awareness and much-needed funds.”

Mr Brown said: “I’m doing this for a great cause and a tough challenge. I’m personally motivated because I lost my best friend Elena to Non-Hodgkin lymphoma two years ago after a long battle. It made me painfully aware of just how cruel and non-discriminating cancer could be.”

Mr Quinn added: “Everyone is behind us. They all think we’re mad but they will be coming down and cheering us on.

“The point is we are choosing to suffer to help people who have no choice but to suffer.”

The drivers have borrowed the two rowing machines from Hove and Burgess Hill fire stations and between them aim to raise £2,000.

Anyone who would like to support them should visit: bit.ly/2sdmYrR