Soldiers' charity march under way

Seven Gloucestershire-based soldiers have begun a challenge to complete seven marathon-length marches in seven days to raise money for charity.

The men from 29 Regiment Royal Logistics Corps, based in South Cerney, have all served in Iraq or Afghanistan.

They will hike for seven hours a day wearing full combat kit, each carrying a 30lb (13.6kg) backpack.

The comrades will be joined by two civilian friends to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund.

After care 'paramount'

One of the marchers, Captain Alan Tindale, said: "Last year, four of us completed a fundraiser of four marathons in 15 days and we had to beat that this year, hence seven in seven.

"It is a payback from us to the Army Benevolent Fund. The care and after care of soldiers is paramount."

Joining Capt Tindale are Capt Dean Hammett, Capt Dave Groce, Staff Sgt Geryn Jones, Sgt Eric "Fletch" Fletcher, Warrant Officer (First Class) Billy McLean and Warrant Officer (Second Class) Dean Morgan.

Civilians Phil McDermott of Worcester Medals and John Gracie of Gracie Framing are also on the mission.

The first marathon began on Sunday at the Duke of Gloucester Barracks in South Cerney.

Other marches will taken them through Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Birmingham, before they return to South Cerney next weekend.