RAF serviceman complete Pen-Y-Fan challenge in Wales for Fund

Three RAF servicemen took on the 24-hour Pen-Y-Fan Challenge climbing the highest peak in Wales to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The Pen-Y-Fan challenge involves walking up and down the highest peak in South Wales 10 times in 24 hours. 

The team consisted of Air Specialist (Class 1) Josh Gorman, 28, from Leeds, is a photographer at RAF Benson in his first posting. Josh was joined by Sergeant Brad Low, RAF Lossiemouth Aircrew and Mountain Rescue and AS1 Luke Cadogan, RAF Marham Weapons Technician.

The team managed 23 summits in total with Josh completing 10, Brad doing eight and Luke reaching five.

Josh said of his motivation for taking on the challenge: “I have always had a connection to mental health since a relatively young age and wanted to do something to support the RAF Family. I’ve heard about fellow personnel who have struggled with their mental health, and this also coincides with 10 years since one of my close friends passed away due to mental health problems. I wanted to raise awareness of the support available at the Fund and make a change and push myself.”

He continued: “I was looking forward to pushing myself and completing another hiking related challenge and the mental resilience, as well as just catching up with some friends after a busy summer! 

“I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished both physically, mentally and fundraising wise and so glad we never have to go back! I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who got behind us and donated.”

The team have raised over £1700 for the RAF Benevolent Fund.