IN CELEBRATION of 100 years of the Royal Air Force, more than 40 individuals from RAF Odiham are lacing up their running shoes to take on a half marathon The group will be participating in the Fleet Half Marathon on Sunday with all proceeds from their efforts going to the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF welfare charity.

All of the money raised will go towards helping RAF personnel, past and present, and their dependants in times of financial and emotional need.

Squadron Leader Matt Sharrock, officer commanding logistics squadron at RAF Odiham, is one of those taking part in the mammoth team effort.

He said: “I’m delighted to be raising money for the RAF Benevolent Fund. I’ve seen the support that they have given here at RAF Odiham – from funding Airplay and facilities for our junior ranks, to families days and our gym refurbishment - and it really does make a huge difference to those who live and work on station.

“Taking part in the Fleet Half Marathon alongside so many of my colleagues, and in particular Logistics Squadron, is the least I can do to give something back to the charity that gives so much.”

Heather Kemp, regional fundraiser for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “I ran a half marathon with RAF personnel previously, so I know how tough it can be. To have the support of RAF Odiham station is wonderful and I’m delighted that they have decided to support us.

“Last year the RAF Benevolent Fund was proud to support RAF Odiham so it’s great to know that the station recognises the importance of our great relationship and have seen first hand how the money they raise goes towards helping the RAF Family – through thick and thin.”

In the last two years the RAF Benevolent Fund has spent more than £460,000 supporting RAF personnel based at RAF Odiham and their families.

This includes support through free relationship counselling sessions with Relate, funding for youth programmes like Airplay and Ben Clubs, as well as individual grants to serving men and women in need.

For more information and to donate to the effort of the RAF personnel, go to justgiving.com/teams/RAFOdihamFleetHalf.