Malpas firefighter is tireless fundraiser (From South Wales Argus)

Malpas firefighter is tireless fundraiser

4:04pm Tuesday 22nd May 2012 in Gwent Torch bearers

AS a firefighter Rick Evans is used to putting out flames - but on Friday he will be keeping one burning, as he carries the Olympic torch in Malvern.

Mr Evans, a South Wales Fire and Rescue Service firefighter based at Newport's Malpas fire station, was nominated to carry the torch by his family, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

After two operations and several months of chemotherapy, he returned to work and also embarked on a range of charity work, including a gruelling physical challenge.

I walked from Edinburgh to London, then completed the London Marathon one day after arriving," said Mr Evans.

"I had an enormous amount of support throughout the challenge and without it, it would have been very difficult to complete."

Velindre hospital, The Fire Fighters Charity and St David’s Hospice are among those to benefit from Mr Evans' efforts.

“I feel incredibly honoured to have this opportunity," he said.

"To carry the Olympic Torch is a great opportunity to represent all those who have been diagnosed and who have suffered due to cancer."