ADVENTURER Bear Grylls is the latest high-profile backer of the Island’s ‘Ocean Brothers’, who are training to row across the Atlantic.
The star of TV survival programmes, who was brought up in Bembridge, threw his weight behind Jude Massey and Greg Bailey days before the start of Sun Awareness Week last Monday.
Their 3,000-mile challenge aims to raise £100,000 for the British Skin Foundation, which promotes research and raises skin cancer awareness.
Bear Grylls said: “It is a huge challenge to attempt this crossing unsupported and I admire the brothers’ courage and determination so much.
“Their support of the British Skin Foundation is so pertinent to many of us. Never give up.”
His endorsement was added to that of Sir Ranulph Fiennes.
The explorer said: “The brothers coming together and battling the full force of the Atlantic Ocean on this tremendous voyage for such a moving and deeply touching cause is an inspiration to any family suffering the loss of a loved one to skin cancer.”
Jude, 18, and Greg, 27, were inspired to take on the challenge so some good would come from the death from skin cancer at the age of just 63 of Peter Massey.
Peter, from Seaview, was Jude’s father and Greg’s stepfather.
“When Peter was young there was less emphasis on sun safety and unfortunately that came back to haunt him in later life.
“These days we know just how damaging UV rays can be and the fact is there are simple steps that can be taken to minimise the risks,” said Greg.
Jude, who has sailed since he was eight, said: “We went through some tough times as a family and we’re spreading the sun safety message to stop other families going through what we went through.
“We’ll certainly be slapping on the sunscreen during our rowing challenge.”
l Find our more about their voyage at www.oceanbrothers.co.uk.