Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Chronicle Live
Chronicle Live
National
Sam Volpe

Cancer charity founder leads epic 24-mile VJ Day memorial walk in honour of the late local hero and WW2 veteran Len Gibson

Geordie philanthropist and founder of the Daft as a Brush cancer charity Brian Burnie led an epic 24-mile Sunderland to Newcastle walk to mark VJ (Victory of Japan) day and honour the memory of his "great friend" Len Gibson.

Remarkable Sunderland war veteran Len, who was awarded the British Empire Medal, died last year at the age of 101 - after years spent promoting remembrance of World War 2 - and in particular the sacrifices of those who fought in East Asia like himself.

He survived a stint as a Prisoner of War at Japanese hands and was put to work on the notorious Burma Railway. This year, after Len's death, Brian wanted to ensure a hefty turnout in his honour.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.