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It’s not often you come across two tins of baked beans and a banana walking towards you in the Cornwall countryside, but this is exactly what CHAOS Radio stumbled upon this week, as Janice Rose explains.
These turned out to be three intrepid employees from RAF St Mawgan, dressed resplendently in fancy dress whilst raising money for the Newquay Foodbank.
It was, in fact, day three of their 67 mile trek across Cornwall but they were still in great spirits, as the day we met them was the home leg of their journey; with the team walking to their base at RAF St Mawgan and then onto their final destination, Newquay Foodbank at St Michael’s Church.
On the first day of the challenge, the team walked from RAF St Mawgan to Wadebridge Foodbank. On the second, they travelled from Bodmin Foodbank to Liskeard, before starting the third and final day from the foodbank in St Austell.
Janice was joined by Warrant Officer Kev Riddle, one of the participants, who explained why the trek was so important, saying: “There’s a disproportionate amount of veterans who need to use food banks.
“From the figures we got from Newquay Foodbank, it seems like over double the amount of veterans use these services compared to the general population. That’s why it’s so important for us to help.”
The trio of Kev, community development officer Carol Atkinson and Justin ‘Winnie’ Churchill, community information officer, were joined by others enroute, giving a welcome boost to morale. Laughter seems to be a constant, especially when they found themselves knee deep in mud, which was a recurring challenge on the day.
“It’s been very difficult, I’m not going to lie but the way we’re looking at it is, it’s tough for us but it’s nothing compared to the challenges that individuals face when trying to put food on their tables. Every mile, every pound we raise, hopefully makes some small difference.”
Being dressed up has proved to be a huge advantage when it comes to engaging with the public. Many people have either beeped their horns or stopped to find out what’s happening, often making donations to the cause.
“We’ve met so many people along the route who are eager to hear our story and support us,” continued Kev. “It’s been especially heart-warming meeting ex-service people and those who have volunteered at foodbanks in the past. Even the lorries that beep as they drive by, it’s just an incredible feeling.”
With £1,000 raised so far – and counting – their valiant efforts have certainly been worthwhile, and their smiles are infectious!
“People have been incredibly generous, especially with the way living costs are rising. To see strangers, people we don’t even know, contributing to this cause shows how much it resonates with people. It really lifts your spirits.”
A massive well done to the team from RAF St Mawgan and their support crew – you are amazing! We look forward to seeing what adventures you get up to in the future.
If you feel able to contribute to their incredible efforts, click HERE to visit their JustGiving page.
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