A FLINTSHIRE charity champion is to take on a rowing challenge in memory of friends and to show his appreciation to hard working NHS staff.

Ray Woolley has been raising money for Cancer Research UK for almost 50 years and usually rows from Connah's Quay to Chester every year as part of his fundraising efforts.

This year Mr Woolley said he has decided to take on an extra row in memory of two friends who have recently passed away, as well as to pay tribute to the ongoing work of the NHS during the coronavirus pandemic.

He said: "I'll be leaving Connah's Quay Docks at 10.45am on June 6 and hopefully getting into Chester for 11.45am.

"I have worked out the tides and everything.

"I usually do the row for Cancer Research, but someone suggested I do one for the NHS as well. "I'll never refuse a challenge and if it's going to do a bit of good, I'll do it.

"So it'll be in appreciation of the NHS and also in memory of some good friends, Mike Strong and Ken Richards, who have passed away recently.

"I've got a few lads who want to do the row with me - anyone who wants to take part can meet up at 10am at Connah's Quay Docks - but they'll need a life jacket."