A Royal Air Force officer from Boston is set to take on a gruelling ‘leopard crawl’ charity effort, as he seeks to honour the memory of his son and help other families facing devastating loss.

Sam Brown, of Fishtoft, has pledged to complete the military-style crawl from Boston’s Pilgrim Hospital to St Botolph’s Church in the town centre, meaning he will cover the 1.3 miles between the two entirely on his stomach.

Inspiration for the challenge comes in heartbreaking form.

On November 8, of last year, Sam’s son Frankie was born prematurely and sadly never got the chance to experience the world his family had dreamed of sharing with him.

Sam Brown, of Fishtoft, Boston, preparing for his 'leopard crawl' charity effort in memory of his son.

placeholder image — Sam Brown, of Fishtoft, Boston, preparing for his 'leopard crawl' charity effort in memory of his son.

Sam is hoping to raise £2,000 for Boston Pilgrim Hospital’s Maternity and Neonatal Units as a thank you to the team that cared for his son and supported the family through their loss.

Speaking about the fundraiser, he said: “No parent ever imagines having to say goodbye before they’ve even had the chance to say hello. “During one of the darkest moments of our lives, the staff at Pilgrim Hospital showed us an incredible amount of love, kindness and compassion. Their care and support meant more to us than words could ever express.

“This challenge is our way of saying thank you and to help other families who may find themselves in a similar situation.”

The ‘Every Inch for Frankie’ challenge is set to take place on December 19.

Writing on his JustGiving page, Sam said: “1.3 miles might not sound far when you're walking or running, but crawling every single inch on my stomach will be a completely different challenge.

“It's going to be physically demanding, uncomfortable and exhausting. But every inch will have a purpose.

“Every inch for Frankie. Every inch for the families who need support. Every inch to make a difference.”

The funds will help provide essential equipment for babies and families cared for by the unit, including the purchase of specially designed prams, which allow families dignity and privacy as they spend precious time with their babies before having to say their final goodbyes.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals charity manager Ben Petts praised Sam’s determination.

He said: “What Sam is attempting to do is incredible. The time families get with their babies is precious and this fundraiser will help other families create invaluable memories together.”

To support the ‘Every Inch for Frankie’ fundraiser, visit Sam’s JustGiving page.