A Melksham veteran is set to take on a 24-hour endurance challenge in April in aid of a charity supporting veterans.
Stephen Crawshaw-Bowen, who served in the Army for 12 years, will run five miles every four hours for 24 hours while carrying 20kg.
He is raising funds for the Army Benevolent Fund, which provides lifelong support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families facing hardship, injury, illness or financial difficulty.
Stephen said, “Their work ensures that those who have served our country are never left behind and every donation will help make a real difference to the lives of those who have given so much.”
He added, “We as the armed forces community lost a solider recently who had been battling mental health challenges. I would like to send my condolences to their family and friends. It’s a powerful reminder of why this cause matters so much. I will be taking on this challenge with real purpose and determination, in honour of those who are struggling and in memory of those we have lost.”
Speaking about the scale of the task ahead, he said, “As for the challenge I am feeling more determined than ever to help raise awareness of people in the armed forces who are struggling with mental health. The biggest challenge I expect will be managing fatigue over a prolonged period, but I will be staying mentally focused on the challenge ahead.”
“In terms of difficulty, I would say this has the potential to be one of the hardest challenges I will be doing to date.”
He will complete the event wearing a 10kg weighted vest and 10kg daysack.
“I am currently getting a feather flag made with the Army Benevolent fund on. I would ask if you are a soldier currently serving or veteran to please reach out,” Stephen added.
Stephen is known locally for completing other fundraising chall-enges for the Royal British Legion, finishing them on Remembrance Day.
Last year, he ran 150 miles in 11 days for the RBL. In 2024, he ran five miles every day, completing both challenges while carrying an RBL flag.
The latest challenge will take place over the Easter bank holiday weekend starting on 4th April. To support his fundraising, visit https://shorturl.at/m0Gud
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