RAF Brize Norton pilot wins national charity award for fundraising efforts

RAF pilot Flight Lieutenant Tom Mountney has won the RAF Benevolent Fund's Above and Beyond title at the charity's eighth annual awards.  

The ceremony, held virtually on 13 October, was attended by hundreds of RAF personnel and supporters of the Fund in a night which celebrates the achievements of those who support the RAF's leading welfare charity, from dedicated individuals and groups to RAF stations and corporate partners.

Tom raised more than £13,500 running an ultra-marathon over the Three Peaks last year. He completed the 450-mile run from Ben Nevis in Scotland, to Scafell Pike in the Lake District, finishing in Snowdon in Wales in a record nine days, 11 hours and 30 minutes, raising money for the Fund and baby loss awareness charity Tommy’s.

Tom, who flies C-17s at RAF Brize Norton, said: "It's a huge honour to receive this award from the RAF Benevolent Fund, the very people who helped my wife and I in our hour of need. To be able to give back to them, and to raise awareness of the great work which they do, has been one of the most challenging but gratifying experiences of my life."

Tom and his wife Anna chose the two charities as a thank you for the support they received when they suffered several miscarriages last year. Happily, the couple now have a daughter, Poppy, who is 10 months old.

Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, Controller of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: "During my first few months at the Fund I was struck by the dedication of our supporters who go to incredible lengths to ensure we are able to continue our work supporting the RAF Family. The awards are our opportunity to celebrate those who make all of this possible and thank all our supporters.

"Huge congratulations to all of the winners, especially Tom for his incredible feat of endurance. We truly would not be able to do what we do without every single one of our supporters whether it be raising money or awareness, helping us to reach even more members of the RAF Family."

The award was presented by Deputy Commander Capability Air Marshal Andrew Turner.