ROYAL Navy physical training instructors from HMS Raleigh tested their mettle on a rowing machine when they carried out a 24-hour row to raise money for Cancer Research UK. Commodore David Pond, the commanding officer of HMS Raleigh, started the event in which 20 members of HMS Raleigh's physial training department rowed at least two 30-minute slots during the 24-hour period, completing 7,500 metres each time. The event was organised by leading physical training instructor (l/pti) Simon Backhouse, who lost his father to cancer last year. Originally from Cambridgeshire, Simon, 26, has already raised around £3,500 for Cancer Research UK with a sponsored cycle ride and a similar event on a rowing machine during his time on the minesweeper, HMS Ledbury. Simon, who joined the Royal Navy in 1999, said: 'Cancer is a common illness that affects one in three people. 'Since my dad contracted the illness three years ago I have done whatever I can to raise money for cancer research. 'We're hoping that people within HMS Raleigh dig deep in their pockets and make a donation.' Cancer Research UK is one of a number of charities that HMS Raleigh has supported throughout 2005, with around £8,000 being raised by servicemen and women and civilian staff working at the base. The money has been donated to a variety of good causes including the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Derriford Hospital's children's ward as well as the establishment's adopted charity, Churchtown Farm, a respite and care holiday centre for adults and children with physical disabilities near Lostwithiel.
