Row Row Row Your Boat

Andy, Mick, Judith, Steve and Craig

Local landlord Steve Leonard and his friends Andy, Rick, Mick and Craig paddled two canoes 127 miles and raised £1782 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The four day gruelling event was not without its challenges. Beginning in Liverpool at 5.15am, on a cold and wet morning, the elements were against them. Sleeping in tents along the way, the friends battled on and 127 miles later, they had successfully completed their mission.

Steve, who owns The Windmill pub, said: 'It was tough, due to the weather, but we kept our morale up with men’s talk, mostly about football. The weather picked up on the last day or two, and so it became easier and we ended on a high. We wore Macmillan t-shirts and found people were very supportive of us.'

One of Steve's friends has experienced first hand the excellent care provided by Macmillan, as his Mum lost her recent battle with cancer. Extremely grateful for the help of Macmillan, the friends wanted to give something back to the charity, so it can continue to help others affected by cancer.

The friends raised an astounding £1,782. They hope to plan a future event to raise more money for Macmillan and promise they will do something original.

Judith Stewart, Fundraising Manager for Merseyside said: 'These guys have completed an amazing challenge. It was certainly a longer row than around Southport Marine Lake. They’ve raised a fantastic amount and we are all very grateful. Macmillan relies on the generosity of fundraisers like this for 97% of its income. Without them, it would not be possible for the charity to continue providing the vital service that it does.'

To find out more or to help raise money for Macmillan, please call Judith Stewart on 01925 846746  or visit www.macmillan.org.uk|