Former racing driver Derek Warwick is promoting a rowathon in aid of Macmillan Cancer. Picture: Tony Pike (00968547)

FORMER F1 racing driver Derek Warwick swapped four wheels for a rowing machine to promote a charity event for Macmillan Cancer Support Jersey.

The charity is organising a team rowing challenge at the Royal Jersey Showground in Trinity to replicate the annual Sark to Jersey rowing race.

Teams of six will be challenged to row 30,000 metres, with each member completing five 1,000 metre stints.

Rowing machines will be linked to a large screen which will show how the teams are performing against each other. Trophies will be awarded to the fastest men’s, women’s and mixed teams.

Mr Warwick, who can’t attend the rowathon but has entered a team in the event, said: ‘I have taken part in a number of events for the charity over the years, but when Macmillan Cancer Support Jersey approached me to enter a team in the rowathon I jumped at the chance.

‘I thought it was a great idea to replicate the Sark to Jersey race on a rowing machine, especially as each team can see how they are doing against each other on a big screen.’
The event will also include a health and fitness fair, children’s entertainment and food and refreshments.

Each team is being asked to raise a minimum of £300 sponsorship, with all the funds being donated to Macmillan in Jersey.

Anyone interested in entering a team is asked to email Andy.smith@rbsint.com or call 07797 748759.