RAF Lossiemouth serviceman completes 18-mile Ben Nevis race fundraising challenge

On 20 September 2025, Aircraft Commander Mark Buxton completed the Ben Nevis Skyline run to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The challenge involved an 18-mile-high mountain race over Ben Nevis with 5500ft of climb and descent. 

Mark has been in the RAF for over 20 years. He was commissioned as a pilot in 2011 and is now Aircraft Commander on the P8 Poseidon with 201 Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth.

Mark said: “As Officer in Charge (OiC) of the RAF Lossiemouth Station Charities Fund, we are now encouraging each member to organise or take part in at least one fundraising event annually, with the RAF Benevolent Fund as a permanent beneficiary. To set the standard, I lead from the front and show what can be achieved with commitment and effort.

“My family personally have used several facilities that have been funded by the RAF Benevolent Fund, mainly Ben’s Den soft play at RAF Lossiemouth.”

Speaking of the challenge, Mark said: “The weather got a lot worse throughout the day and about halfway round we had sideways rain, which was difficult climbing over steep and rocky terrain. Ultimately, the race became a matter of endurance, but I was pleased to finish in the top half.”

Mark continued: “I wanted to do something that wasn’t easily attainable and pushed myself to do something that I wouldn’t necessarily enjoy, so that my suffering would cajole others to really think about donating.

“I also cut out alcohol and chocolate for the past three months to help with training, so I was looking forward to a beer and a Double Decker!”