Royal Air Force News Friday, November 14, 2025 P7
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GUNNING FOR GLORY: The Military vs Cancer team celebrate as they arrive at Land’s End after 45 days PHOTOS: CPL TOM CANN
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Staff Reporter Land’s End FORCES GUN runners hit Land’s End in Cornwall on the final leg of their epic 1,000-mile charity challenge after hauling a 1.3 tonne field gun across the length of the UK. More than 1,300 serving and veteran personnel volunteered for duty – starting in John o’Groats and working in crews of 20 to cover 20 miles a day, raising an estimated £150,000 to help support cancer victims and their families. As they neared the Cornish finish line they were joined by hundreds of veterans and serving military personnel from nearby St Mawgan, a pipe band and local well-wishers. Speaking after finally crossing the finish line after 45 days, organiser Dave Bathgate who set up the Military vs Cancer charity said: “I am exhausted, but so proud of everyone from around the UK who has not only got involved with the pull, but also come out to show support for us. “The whole challenge has been really strenuous, but completely worth it for the money we have raised to help those affected by
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cancer within the Armed Forces community, whether serving, veterans, or their families. “Military vs Cancer is dedicated to providing direct support to those who need it most, and this event is about
showing what can be achieved when people come together with determination and purpose.” David added: “Completing this challenge wouldn’t have been possible without the support of thousands of volunteers, companies
and members of the public who are donating to the charity.” The challenge has not yet been verified as a World Record, but organisers believe this to be the first time a 1-tonne field gun has been pulled the entire length of the country. The field gun challenge was a personal mission for many who took part. Former weapons engineer Mark Barnes said: “This is a cause very close to my heart. My daughter was diagnosed with cancer at 16, so I know firsthand how important it is to receive support from charities. “It has meant so much to represent the military on this challenge and to personally be a small part of this epic achievement, which I’m sure will not only be remembered for the enormity of the challenge, but also for the money it raises to help military families around the UK deal with their battle with cancer.”