Gruelling 'Tour de Yorkshire' cycle challenge raises tens of thousands of pounds for RAF Benevolent Fund

A team of 24 ex-service and business leaders, with a passion for the RAF and helping the RAF Benevolent Fund, have raised tens of thousands of pounds in a gruelling cycling challenge through Yorkshire. 

The event, dubbed the ‘Tour de Yorkshire’, was undertaken by members of the April Fools Club, who cycled 82 miles on day one and 79 miles the following day, during the challenge to ride 170 miles from York to Scarborough, which took place last month. 

So far, the team has raised more than £33,000 of a £50,000 target.  

John Peters, April Fools Club Captain, said: "The AFC Values of fellowship; fundraising, fun and forum, align with the RAF Benevolent Fund – supporting members of our RAF Family through thick and thin providing practical, emotional, and financial support when they need us. This is why we are raising money for the RAF Benevolent Fund."

"I spent 20 years in the RAF as a Tornado GR1 pilot and was involved in the First Gulf War in 1991, shot down, captured and paraded on TV by Saddam Hussein. With the resultant fame, I was lucky enough to have the focus of care, whilst many fellow veterans have faced unrecognised challenges. I feel responsible to help the RAF Family."

He added: "I am currently being helped as my 87-year-old father, a former RAF airman from National Service era, has Parkinson’s and onset dementia. The RAF Benevolent Fund is assisting with help and advice to ensure I can make the best choices both for him and my mother."

The April Fools Club was founded at RAF Linton-on-Ouse, in North Yorkshire, in 2008 and now has 148 members between the RAF and business that fundraises for RAF charities and runs adventures and social events throughout the year.

To support the April Fools Club’s fundraising visit justgiving.com/fundraising/aprilfoolsclubtdy.