Network Rail and Cancer Research UK are celebrating after the launch of their new two-year partnership, with Network Rail getting off to a flying start donating almost £200,000 in the first three months of the partnership.

Back in April this year, Cancer Research UK was voted by Network Rail employees as their charity of choice for 2010 – 2012, with the aim of raising a massive £1m over the next two years to help beat cancer.

Network Rail has become the first ever national sponsor of the charity’s inspirational Relay for Life series.  The event, which takes place in 75 towns and cities across the UK, is organised by supporters and brings together communities in an inspiring overnight celebration and commemoration.

Since the partnership launch in April, employees across the country have been busy taking part in all kinds of fundraising activities to raise money towards the charity’s life-saving work. So far, they have held football tournaments, World Cup sweepstakes, battle of the bands concerts, cycled from Lands End to John O’Groats, and scaled the Three Peaks.  Lots more is planned, including dragon boat races and sky dives, not to mention plenty of pink fundraising for breast cancer awareness in October.

Victoria Pender, group director of government and corporate affairs at Network Rail, said: “Cancer Research UK is a terrific charity that does tremendous work and I am proud that Network Rail will be working with them once again. It’s been great to see so many of our people already getting behind this fantastic cause. We have lots of fun and exciting fundraising activities planned throughout the year for our people to get involved with and I know everyone here is keen to get behind the charity to beat cancer and make a real difference to lives across Britain.”

Claire Rowney, head of corporate partnerships at Cancer Research UK, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that the partnership has got off to such a great start.  It’s testament to the passion and enthusiasm of everyone at Network Rail, who have truly embraced the work of Cancer Research UK and our vision to beat cancer.  Our work on the causes and prevention of cancer has saved millions of lives across the world and, by helping us to continue our research, Network Rail is helping us to save many more in the future.”