RAF Police Corporal takes on 500-mile walk to raise money for Fund

RAF Police Corporal Gillian Craig is undertaking a 500-mile walk to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund over the month of May.

Gillian, 32, is completing the challenge walking around RAF Honington, where she is based, and the local area. Her aim is to walk 16 miles per day which is approximately 34,000 steps.

Gillian said of her inspiration to take on the challenge: “I have seen first-hand the many ways in which the Fund helps serving personnel and their families, as well as veterans. When applying for support, the staff are very friendly and accommodating.

“I sought support from the Fund in 2023 and was invited to participate in a session aimed at reducing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, something which I found challenging at the time.

“This challenge is my way of ‘giving back’ in conjunction with the VE and VJ Day 80 celebrations; I wanted to challenge myself both physically and mentally.”

Gillian continued: “I have had several canine friends along for the ride thus far, as well as guest appearances from friends who have encouraged me when resilience has been hard to find.

“I have to say the over-arching highlight is seeing how many people have supported so generously with donations. I am working full-time whilst completing the challenge, which is adding to the pressures of completion, but every time I hear my e-mail notification 'ping' in my headphones whilst walking, it spurs me on even more!”

Gillian has raised over £700 for the Fund so far. You can donate to support her fundraiser on JustGiving.