A Grantham soldier's making a world record attempt and raising money in aid of veterans charities
he's walking 30 marathons in 30 days
A Grantham soldier's almost completed 30 marathons in 30 days to help fundraise for two veterans charities and make a world record attempt in the process. He's doing it while carrying a rather hefty backpack with 28 kilograms in there.
Private Richard Lake was inspired to raise the money after his friend Simon suffered a life changing injury and had to leave the army. He's got two more days to go, and is aiming to raise £5,000.
It's all in aid of charities that help those who can no longer serve.
Richard Lake has been walking with a 28 kilogram backpack each day down Grantham Canal
Why is he doing it?
Private Richard Lake says: "I'm walking 26.2 miles minimum everyday with a Bergen backpack weighing 28 kilograms. It's 28 kg because Simon served 28 years in the Army. So for each year that he served I put a kilo in the Bergen"
"Simon's been a family friend of ours for years, and he suffered a life changing injury in 2015 and suffered mental health issues. I've had the same mental health issues as Simon, not as bad as Simon though. And I wanted to show to him that he's appreciated by all of us, we all love him dearly"
"I'm doing it for two charities, Battle Back Golf, and Detecting for Veterans - which is basically the same as battle back golf but they're using metal detecting to help them get back into society really , and help them cope with their mental health and PTSD"
What does Simon think of all this?
Simon Auckland is the inspiration for the world record attempt and fundraising drive. He says:
"Rehabilitation through the sport of golf is amazing. It's amazing what such a little white ball can do for your mental health. I play golf with people who've got double leg amputees, single leg amputees. All different kinds of life changing injuries and illnesses. When we're on a golf course - it's like we're back in again, the banter and the camaraderie - it's amazing"
And on the Richard's challenge he says "It's crazy! he's a crazy man but I have great admiration for him"