A COTGRAVE man whose wife is recovering from breast cancer will today embark on five days of non-stop fishing to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Clive Hawker, 42, said he had decided to do the challenge, at Holme Pierrepont because it combined his favourite hobby with helping a cause close to his heart.
Six years ago, his wife, Vicky, 41, was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Mr Hawker said: "When Vicky got ill, it was a very traumatic time. The course of treatment was long and tough but she battled on through.
"Even though she got given the all-clear, she has never been the same since. It has been an extremely difficult time for both of us.
"So, as I'm a dedicated angler, I thought I would do a sponsored five day non-stop fish for Cancer Research.
"I just want to do something for a cause that helps people like my wife and give something back."
Mr Hawker, who took early retirement recently, added that he would eat and sleep by Hackett's Lake, Holme Pierrepont for the next five days.
He said: "I won't leave the lake in the next week. I've never done anything like this before, so I am quite apprehensive but also excited."
Mr Hawker has been fishing since the age of five.
"The longest I have fished for before is 48 hours and this is much longer," he said.
"I can't predict how many fish I'll catch really. I can go for 24 hours and catch 40 fish, but then again, at this time of year, things slow down a lot and there are less fish.
"But I'm hoping for a fair haul."
He added that the five day challenge was a personal challenge as well as a fundraising one.
"I've got epilepsy, so for me this five-day stint is a personal milestone, too.
"I will have my dad and a few friends popping out to see me to check I'm OK. I'm really looking forward to completing it and I'm hoping to raise around £500 for Cancer Research UK."
Mr Hawker has raised £100 so far. To sponsor him, go to www. justgiving.com/clivehawker1904.