A duo with a passion for the military are walking 100 miles wearing specially built tank and warship costumes to raise money for the Veterans’ Foundation and the MND Association.
Graeme Lloyd, a civil servant at HMS Sultan, and former Royal Navy Captain John Kelly are taking on the seven-day challenge ending on 24 June, travelling from Bovington in Dorset to Portsmouth via a series of military locations.
The pair are wearing replica military vehicle costumes throughout the journey, with Graeme carrying a tank and John a warship. Each costume weighs approximately 20 kilograms and must be supported and carried for the duration of the walk.
The challenge is the latest in a series of ambitious fundraising efforts by Graeme. Last year, he completed the London Marathon dressed as a triceratops after walking from Portsmouth to London in support of motor neurone disease charities.
Graeme said: “The costumes each weigh about 20 kilograms so it’s not going to be plain sailing to get to the finish line. We have been training wearing additional weights when out walking so hopefully it won’t be too painful.”
To add to the spectacle, the tank costume includes smoking pellets designed to simulate firing from its main gun.
Funds raised from the challenge will be shared between the Veterans’ Foundation and the MND Association.
Jane Gurney, CEO of the Veterans’ Foundation, said:
“We are incredibly grateful to Graeme and John for taking on such a remarkable challenge in support of the Veterans’ Foundation and the MND Association. Walking 100 miles while carrying 20-kilogram tank and warship costumes is no small feat and demonstrates real dedication to the causes they are supporting.
“As the Veterans’ Foundation marks 10 years of supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families across the UK, it is inspiring to see fundraisers like Graeme and John going above and beyond to help us continue our vital work. We wish them every success on their journey and thank everyone who supports their efforts.”
The Veterans’ Foundation provides grants to charities and organisations delivering life-changing support to serving personnel, veterans and their families across the UK.
Fundraising challenges such as this help ensure that vital support continues to reach those who need it most.
You can support this amazing challenge by visiting:
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