KILLIE and Ardrossan Winton Rovers legend Derek Cook has endured some marathon matches and staminasapping training sessions over the years.

But nothing can compare with the latest charity marathon he has signed up for. Ardrossan man Derek, who now lives in London, has signed up for Great River Race is London’s largest sporting event after the London Marathon, which is scheduled for Saturday, September 8.

With more than 300 crews taking part, it has become the biggest and most prestigious event of its kind in Europe.

He will be joined by Alan Bragoli, Lex Portelli, Jake Greaves, Josh Allen, Pete Mcbryer (passenger) Greg Keen (cox) and Geoff Keen (captain).

Derek said: “I know I have done some silly charity challenges and have made a lot of cash for the kids but this takes the biscuit. I was sitting the other night and the boss of the Pelton and few other pubs comes in in a panic. He has a man down in his five- man team and can’t get anyone to step in.

“I said it didn’t matter what it was but he replied it was a 23-mile row from Greenwich to Richmond up the Thames. I’ve never done anything like this in my life. And only four weeks to train.

“I have never seen the Boat Race and never been on a rowing boat in my life but I’m sure it will be a challenge. It will be intense training five nights a week.

“I stay in Greenwich where there are four different rowing clubs who do charity things and this will help support them.

“I was involved with the Butterfly Club, a special needs group based at Stanley Primary and we brought Glentoran over for a football match at Ardeer and Winton Rovers a few years ago and we also did a 54-mile bike ride. Over the years we have raised about £40,000.”

He added: “No one is any fitter than rowers. The rowers are supreme athletes. There are 350 boats taking part. Decent crews will take three hours, hopefully we can do it in four. Items will be auctioned off at the Pelton Arms on the night of the event, including things from Still Game and we hope to raise about £5,000.”

Anyone who like to help should message Derek via his Facebook page or visit https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/peltonpursers