A burning ambition to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support led to South West Trains’ station manager from Farnborough, Jason Murphy, committing to walk barefoot across red-hot embers on Thursday 10th March.
The first-time firewalker, who lives in Alton, put mind over matter to master the firewalk at a charity evening organised by Hampshire Macmillan Fundraising Team.
The event, which saw Jason undergo a motivational training session before walking across a scorching five metre trail of fiery embers without experiencing any pain or injury, was held at the Southampton Guildhall.
Commenting on his brave achievement, Jason said: “The firewalk was an amazing experience – and I still find it hard to believe we all came through it totally unscathed.
“The thought of raising so much money for such a worthwhile cause, which does so much for people in the local area, was a fantastic motivation to tread into the unknown.”
Jason Murphy, supported by South West Trains’ parent company Stagecoach Group, raised £550 through sponsorship from kind friends, family and colleagues. The proceeds went to Macmillan Cancer Support, providing special services for people with cancer and their families.
Katie Blake, Fundraising Manager for Macmillan Cancer Support commented: “I would like to thank Jason for his courageous endeavours to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. The money we raise is for the benefit of people affected by cancer and their family, but it is only possible thanks to the support of such amazing people.”
“Next year we plan to hold the Fire Walk in Winchester, so if anyone would like to be take up the challenge please email [email protected] to register your interest and further details will be available shortly.”
It is hoped the event will help to raise an amazing £20,000, which is double the original target, thanks to the 135 hotfooted firewalkers.
