Can you rise to the RAF Reserves Challenge?

To support one of their own, RAF Reservists up and down the country are signing up to cycle 1,500 miles in just eight weeks, in support of the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The challenge will support Squadron Leader Tristram Carter who has pledged to cycle between all the squadrons of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, a total of 1,500 miles, beginning at the end of June. He hopes to complete the challenge in four weeks and will be travelling without a support crew so will carry all his kit. Those signing up to the Reserves Challenge, have double the time to complete the feat, with the fundraiser finishing at the end of July.

Charlotte Barmby, RAF Benevolent Fund Community Fundraiser and RAF Reservist, said: "I decided to become a Reservist as I wanted to be part of the RAF without giving up the job I love at the Fund.

"I've met some great people during my training and while I was mobilised last autumn in support of the Covid-19 testing programme. As Reservists we commit to training in our spare time and then answering the call, when we're asked to step up.

"We can do that with the knowledge that should we need support, the RAF Benevolent Fund will be there for us which is why I'm so excited to be supporting this challenge. It's great to be able to give something back."

The RAF Benevolent Fund supports the RAF Family, which includes RAF Reservists and their partners and dependants. When life is tough the Fund is there, providing emotional, practical and financial support.