A 67-YEAR-OLD Teignmouth Royal Navy veteran battling incurable cancer has raised almost £1,800 for Torbay Hospital after a marathon charity bowls challenge.

Jim Harvey successfully completed his 100-end challenge at Bitton Park Bowls Club on September 6, taking 8hrs 55mins to finish the job.

Paramedics were on hand to ensure the demanding task never proved too much for the former chef while friends and family were on hand to provide back up and insist on regular breaks.

‘He is an inspiration to all of us,’ said club Chairman Bill Smith.

‘He was fully supported throughout the day by his family, friends, club members and teams from other clubs in the area.

‘The money raised so far is £1791.25, far above the total he had in mind, which will go to the Ricky Grant Day Unit at Torbay Hospital where Jim has been receiving treatment for more than four years.

‘Jim will be visiting the unit with his sister Joanne to arrange the presentation later this week.’

Four times World Indoor Bowls Champion and Commonwealth Games Athlete Rob Paxton demonstrated his support by attending on the day and playing four ends.

There were 87 raffle prizes supplied by local and national businesses with players enjoying a homemade cream tea donated by members Neil and Margaret Murgatroyd.

Jim said: ‘Everything went well with 100 ends completed in 8 hours and 55 minutes.

‘It was a lovely sunny day and everyone enjoyed the day.’

Teignmouth Mayor Cllr Cate Williams said: ‘I can only echo Bill Smith’s words when he says that Jim is an inspiration to us all.

‘Teignmouth Town Council is proud to support Bitton Park Bowls Club, all the more so when members join forces and go the extra mile to generate such a magnificent sum for Torbay Hospital.

‘They are all to be congratulated, as are those who donated prizes or helped in any way.

‘What wonderful people we have in our community.’