Worthing veterans grateful for messages of support during D-Day challenge

Len Gibbon, 96, and Peter Hawkins, 95, completed an epic static cycling challenge, covering the 104-mile distance of their original journey from Portsmouth to Gold Beach in the Second World War.

They both live at the home in Boundary Road and wanted to raise money to support the charity, which provides care and rehabilitation for physically disabled ex-service personnel and their families.

Len explained: “Although I’m 96, I still like to be doing something. I did this challenge to help raise money for Care for Veterans because it’s a wonderful place.

“I think that it is a very good idea to raise money for the home, as this is a very good one. We are still active and enjoy cycling, so it is up to us to do our best to help and raise money.

“We may be old but we are not past our sell by date. Thank you everyone who sent us kind messages.”

Len started the challenge on the static bikes at the home and Peter soon joined him, though he was not sure at first he could make the distance.

Peter said: “I was asked if I would like to participate in a cycling challenge on behalf of Care for Veterans. Upon consideration, I realised I could use my energy to be of use in the running of this home.

“At my age, I thought it would be a good example to show my determination and help to inspire others. I started off on this long route and got on very well. After the halfway point, I realised that I was going to complete the full route. This was very satisfying for me as I realised this would help the home to achieve their goal.”

The anniversary of D-Day, on Saturday, June 6, was also marked with a virtual race, which saw 48 people walk, run or cycle a distance of 5km or 10km in their own time and raised more than £1,000 for Care for Veterans.

James Bacharew, head of fundraising, said: “Len and Peter were elated to have completed their challenge. It has been inspirational to see them at their age get up and get out and cycle every day to reach the distance.

“We are truly grateful to them for helping to raise this incredible amount of money. This, along with the money raised by our virtual racers, comes at a much-needed time for the charity.

“All of our events we had planned for 2020, upon which we rely to raise vital funds, have been postponed or cancelled, so support like this is invaluable. On behalf of our residents and staff, I’d like to thank Len and Peter, and everyone who took part in the virtual race. Your support will help us to continue caring for our nation’s veterans.”

For Armed Forces Day, you can step up, join the team and virtually march up Ben Nevis in aid of Care for Veterans. Visit www.careforveterans.org.uk for more information.

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