Former RAF Firefighters complete 64-mile challenge for Fund

Former RAF firefighter John Armson completed a remarkable 64-mile walk across Lincolnshire, raising money for the RAF Benevolent Fund, while promoting awareness of prostate cancer.

John, 64, from Belton, North Lincolnshire, walked 64 miles over two days, visiting RAF memorials connected to former Second World War stations across Lincolnshire, known as "Bomber County".

John, originally from Doncaster, Yorkshire, served as an RAF Firefighter from 1983 to 2005. He undertook the challenge to celebrate his 64th birthday and mark his recovery, while supporting a charity that has played an important role in both his life and the wider RAF community.

John said: "I am 64 and I thought whilst attempting a 64-mile walk to mark the milestone of both recovery and celebrate reaching 64, and as the route is RAF related, I could also raise funds for this very worthy cause."

The route, completed by John and fellow ex-RAF Firefighter Simon Latham, began at RAF Coningsby and included visits to landmarks and memorials at Woodhall Spa, Bardney, Fiskerton, Dunholme Lodge and RAF Scampton, where John reflected on the sacrifices made by RAF personnel past and present.

Throughout the challenge, John spoke to members of the public about the RAF Benevolent Fund and its work supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families.

John said: “I was supported by the Fund whilst serving during the first gulf war. The Fund assisted in flying my mother out to RAF Akrotiri so she could look after my eldest daughter whilst my wife was in the Princess Mary’s Hospital having our son, and I was unable to have time off work due to the conflict and workload.”

John said: "I am aware of the great work the RAF Benevolent Fund does for those who have served, those still serving and for the families of the RAF community.

"I also really want to highlight to the wider audience, including those still serving in the RAF, about prostate cancer. If my story helps any lad, or a lass with a lad in their life, then I have achieved my aim."

John successfully completed the challenge after covering more than 30 miles on each day of the walk, supported along the way by family, friends and local communities.

You can donate to support John's fundraiser on JustGiving.