WALKING barefoot over burning hot coals might sound like a crazy thing to attempt, but that is exactly what a team of fundraisers will be doing to raise money on Ark Day.

The brave participants will take part in the exhilarating challenge at Basingstoke Rugby Football Club between 4pm and 6pm on June 21, walking over the glowing red-hot embers which can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Organised by Beaufort Financial, it is hoped that up to 80 people will sign up to take part in the fire walk, with everyone’s £25 registration fee going straight to the Ark Cancer Centre Charity appeal.

Mark Dolby, director of the Reading-based firm, is a passionate supporter of the charity, having lost both his parents to cancer.

The 47-year-old from Basingstoke said: “Ark has been our charity for the last three years and we hope to get as many people on board as possible to take part in the firewalk with any money we raise going to the charity.

“Lots of staff are taking part and we will also be opening it up to the public.”

He added: “I have never done anything like this before in my life.”

Mark hopes to encourage other businesses to take part in Ark Day, and said: “Everyone has been affected by cancer and now we have a chance to make a big difference and have a massive impact on our community, not just for those who suffer with cancer but their families in terms of respite and counselling.

“Having to travel to get treatment makes people feel sicker, so anything that can be done to make life easier is really important.

“A couple of hours out of your day to raise money which will have a huge impact on our lives and our kids’ lives, I don’t know why anyone wouldn’t want to take part.”