Sailors from HMS Raleigh have crossed the finishing line of their marathon walk along the South Cornwall National Trail to raise over £2000 for charity.
The group of seven walkers and two support drivers, who all work within the Defence Maritime Logistics School (DMLS), set-off from Land’s End last Thursday (7 September).
Six days later, after trekking for approximately 26 miles each day, the group reached Plymouth Hoe.
Petty Officer Jim Cox, who organised the walk, said: “The weather wasn’t particularly kind to us and there were a lot of tired feet and blisters when we finally reached the Hoe.
“There’s a few people now in the hurt locker, but it was worth it to raise money for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines charity (RNRMC); a great charity that supports both serving and former sailors and Royal Marines and their families.”
The team followed the coast line, breaking each night at Praa Sands, Coverack, Falmouth, Mevigassey and Polperro and picking up where they left off the next day.
PO Cox said: “Lieutenant Commander Chris Cleary and Warrant Officer Vinny Vincent, our support drivers were fantastic.
“Everywhere we stopped there was food and hot drinks waiting for us.”
All those involved work within the Catering Services Squadron at the DMLS providing basic training to newly recruited chefs and stewards and advancement training for more experienced sailors.
Chief Petty Officers (CPO) Simon Wiggin, Matt Rowberry and Jon Spencer, along with Petty Officers (POs) Rob Casey and Daryl Hall and Leading Chef Leon Hutchinson were also members of the walking team.
Matt Rowberry, who is a member of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) service was also raising money for a fund he has set-up.
Matt said: “The fund is there to provide a donation or flowers at the funeral of serving and ex-serving members of the RFA who cross the Bar.
“It’s just so that their friends and family can see that their loved ones are not forgotten.”
Anyone wishing to show their support for the team can donate to the RNRMC online by logging onto www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/dmls
