RAF Coningsby fundraisers swap Snowdon challenge for 102km run due to coronavirus

Cpl Chris Partridge and senior aircraft technicians Charlie Merriman, Dylan Marte, and Andrew Pue made the effort in aid of the RAF Benevolent Fund – the RAF’s leading welfare charity.

The team, all members of C4i Squadron, had planned to raise money for the cause by completing Snowdon24 (climbing up and down Mount Snowdon as many times possible in 24 hours), but had to find an alternative amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Cpl Partridge said: “All four of us have seen first-hand the RAF Benevolent Fund’s fantastic work, so decided to fundraise as a team. We had originally entered the Snowdon24 challenge, but sadly this was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, we still wanted to help support the Fund during this difficult time.

“We decided on the Coningsby C4i 102km challenge as we knew we could safely complete this around the airfield while still abiding by social distancing rules. We had fantastic support and backing from C4i Squadron, RAF Coningsby, and our family and friends. There were a few tears at the end, but we all managed to complete the challenge.”

You can support the team by donating through their fundraising page at justgiving.com/christopher-partridge2.

The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional, and practical assistance to serving and retired RAF personnel and their families.

Lisa Hunt, regional fundraiser, said: “The coronavirus lockdown has had led to many fundraising events being cancelled, so we’re incredibly grateful that Chris and the team were able to complete this challenge.

“Last year alone we spent nearly £250,000 supporting personnel and their families at RAF Coningsby. Thanks our dedicated fundraisers, we can continue to support the whole of the RAF Family for years to come.”