RAF Valley personnel take on 5 marathons in 5 days to give back to Fund

On 19 June, three RAF Valley personnel will be taking on five marathons in five days along the Anglesey Coastal Path to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Wing Commander Penny Butterfield, Amy Plank and Emma Estep will begin and end the challenge at RAF Valley, with the trio setting off on 19 June and aiming to complete the entire 130-mile Anglesey Coastal Path by 23 June. The route will take them across rugged cliffs, beaches, country lanes and exposed headlands, testing both their physical and mental endurance across five consecutive days of marathon-distance running.

Penny who is a helicopter pilot at RAF Valley with 30 years’ service, said the idea for the challenge came from a shared desire to complete a personal goal whilst supporting a cause close to their hearts. Penny said: “The RAF Benevolent Fund is a great charity, and this is an opportunity for us to give something back. This is a personal cause for me as my husband has received counselling through the Fund.”

Amy Plank’s husband is a Squadron Leader at RAF Valley and has been part of the RAF Family for 11 years. She said: “We’re leaving the island this year, so I wanted to complete the coastal path before I go. I decided to turn it into a challenge and raise money at the same time. The Fund is really important not just for serving personnel on Station, but for families too.”

Emma Estep, a civil servant at RAF Valley and former member of the RAF herself, said: “Having grown up and raised a family within the military environment, my children have benefited from events supported by the Fund at various stations we’ve been posted to.”

Penny said: “I’m looking forward to the camaraderie and running along the beautiful coastline.”

Amy added: “It’s going to be a tough few days, but the scenery, hopefully good weather and good company will make it worthwhile – and knowing we’re doing it for a good cause will keep us going.” 

The team are fundraising for the RAF Benevolent Fund and Cancer Research UK. You can donate to support them on Givewheel.