Firefighter rows one million metres for charity

Mr Gatward's mother was diagnosed with PSP last year. It is a devastating brain disease which progressively robs its victims of the ability to walk, talk, see, swallow, eat and drink, leaving many sufferers eventually unable to communicate effectively with the world around them, yet remaining mentally alert.

He began rowing in March as part of maintaining his fitness for work as a firefighter and would keep a record of his times and distances on the Concept 2 website, where he saw someone else taking part in a similar challenge.

He decided to help raise awareness of the disease and much needed funds for research into finding a cure by virtually rowing across the country.

Mr Gatward, has been rowing for one month and has rowed 160,000-metres. He hopes to raise £2,500 for the charity.

He said: "My mum was diagnosed with PSP last year. I had never heard of it before and realised that not many people had either.

"I wanted do something positive at the same time as working out to support the PSP Association, who are doing a fantastic job at supporting many people and families affected by this disease.

"If I row 20km each week I will complete the challenge in 50 weeks. I need to aim to do more each week in case I get called out on any emergencies or am away on annual leave, so it will certainly be a challenge to see it through to the end.

"I have received some very generous sponsors from far and wide; such places as Hong Kong, Spain, France and the UK and I am so very grateful for the support and encouragement that everyone is giving me."

To sponsor Mr Gatwood log onto www.justgiving.com/richardgatward or read how he is getting on at http://richardgatward.blogspot.com.