FUNDRAISER TO COVER 800KM IN 20 DAYS FOR ARMED FORCES CHARITY

A 31-year-old heating systems designer, from Macclesfield, is to run 800km in 20 days, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings and to raise funds for Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes.

When he was younger, Jack Poyser wanted to join Army but was refused entry into the service because of his epilepsy. Years later, he decided he wanted to do something to support the Armed Forces.

He explained:

“Despite my initial disappointment, I still hold our Armed Forces in the highest regard and wanted to do something to help those who serve our country. I first got an idea in 2022, but I was then injured. I later visited Auschwitz and had a feeling when I left there that I really wanted to hit it hard.

“I decided to read into the work Help for Heroes does with veterans, and I was shocked at how much they offer and what they do for the Armed Forces community.

“So, now, from 3 May, I will be running – or walking – from Albemarle Barracks, in Northumberland, to the White Cliffs of Dover, visiting a number of military establishments along the way. I’m looking to average 40km a day.”

The route he’s taking will see him pass the Catterick Garrison and Norton Barracks, Worcestershire, among other military facilities.

Help for Heroes Area Fundraising Manager, Rhys Edwards, said:

“Jack has set himself quite a challenge and hopes to finish it in 20 days. We wish him well and would welcome any offers of accommodation or support for him along the route, which can be viewed online. Thanks, Jack – and may your trainers hold out!”

Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community and helps them live well after service. The charity helps them, and their families, to recover and get on with their lives. It has already supported more than 30,000 people and won’t stop until every veteran gets the support they deserve.

The Charity supports veterans, and their families, from any branch of the UK military – regulars or reserves – irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians (and their families) who worked alongside our Armed Forces.

To donate to Jack’s run, please visit: 

justgiving.com/page/800kmfor80years

To get support, visit: 

helpforheroes.org.uk

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