FIREFIGHTERS ran, rowed and cycled for more than 1,600 miles to complete a 24-hour challenge in memory of a former colleague.

From 10am last Saturday to 10am on Sunday, a team from Bicester Fire Station ‘travelled’ 1,619 miles to raise money for the Sobell House hospice charity in Headington, Oxford.

They used static bikes, a rowing machine and other exercise equipment to cover the distance.

Their challenge took place in Sheep Street, outside HSBC bank, and so far they have raised more than £2,000.

The group chose to support the hospice after it provided end-of-life care for Bicester firefighter Terry Hankins.

Mr Hankins, 61, died at Sobell House in April after a four-month fight with pancreatic cancer.

He served at Bicester Fire Station for 22 years until he retired in 2003.

Friends and colleagues from Kidlington Fire Station also took part.

Pete Mackay, a firefighter from Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service at Bicester, who took part in the event, said: “Cancer is something that affects all of us.

“The loss of our colleague Terry spurred on the station to try to do something different to raise money for the hospice.

“We are really grateful to all the public and friends who supported us – it’s been hard work and fun with highs and lows, but we are extremely pleased with the result.

“The challenge was hard work and from about 5am on Sunday there was torrential rain.

“We have raised about £2,000 so far, but we would love to raise more.”

To make a donation, visit uk.virginmoney giving.com/team/07Bicester2014Challenge

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