RAF veteran completes 500-mile cycle fundraiser

Throughout July, fundraiser Des Roberts completed a 500-mile cycle challenge to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

RAF veteran Des Roberts, from Colesden, Bedfordshire, completed the challenge to mark his 72nd birthday.

Des, who was a Junior Technician in the RAF between 1973 and 1988, said: “My reason for fundraising is that although I’ve never needed the services of the RAF Benevolent Fund, there are plenty who have been in need and benefited from their support. I have an affinity to the RAF because joining was the best career choice of my life, so I feel like doing something positive to give back to the charity.

“During my 15 years of service, there were some welfare cases I was aware of, and the Fund stepped up in times of need. The dynamics of the RAF have changed significantly since I served. Looking back, I feel privileged to have served and, like so many ex-service personnel, I’d do it all again in a heartbeat. At the ripe old age of 72, I’m still going strong, so I thought why not celebrate by setting myself a personal challenge.”

Des continued: “I enjoyed getting out on my bike, the sunshine and seeing my fitness increase. And a nice cold beer at the end!”

You can donate to Des’ fundraiser on JustGiving.