Friends to take on Three Peaks Challenge in James Morden's memory

James Morden, who worked at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in Cotswold Road, was one of two people killed in a crash last September.

The 31-year-old, who died in east Sussex, was ‘truly valued’ and now eight walkers will enter the Three Peaks Challenge while remembering him on June 8.

Peter McNulty is among those taking part for ICR and said: “James was genuinely one of the nicest guys you will ever meet.

“Everyone liked him, and we miss him dearly. He travelled more than anyone I have met!

“We wanted to do this because we think James would have been up for it, and we want to do things to remember him by and also raise money for a good cause and work that he cared about.”

Mr Morden was fatally injured after being hit by a Nissan Pathfinder 4X4 in Harvey's Lane, according to Sussex Police, one of several pedestrians walking in a group in Ringmer.

The team will climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, then Scafell Pike in Cumbria, before they will be joined by 10 more walkers for the last one in Snowdon, Wales.

Extra members will involve some of Mr Morden’s close family while 23 miles will be trekked during the challenge, reaching a total ascent of more than 10,000 feet, in 24 hours.

Money will be raised for the ICR while more than £3,800 has already been raised by 159 supporters – smashing the £2,000 target – at the time of writing.

Professor Judith Bliss, director of the Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit at the research institute, said: “James was a truly valued colleague at the ICR – sharing his passion for science and working to improve outcomes for patients via the clinical trials on which he worked.

“James was also gregarious in his enthusiasm to learn more about the diseases on which he worked.

“He was always keen to improve his experience and skills – including learning new methods so the Career Development Award in James’ name will be a fitting and lasting tribute.”

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