Soldiers from the MERCIAN Regiment will conduct a stretcher carry around the Potteries ‘Arf Marathon on Sunday 26th Sept. A 12x man team, from the Potteries, will carry the 80kg stretcher over the 13.1 mile route. For those who know the route well will tell you the route is not the easiest, especially Anchor Rd in Longton and Milton Rd in Sneyd, and not for the faint hearted. By doing this the team will show grit and determination to complete the course. All this is to raise money and awareness for the Mercian Benevolent Fund and the Hubb foundation. Stoke-on-Trent has great Military ties to the MERCIAN Regiment and historic ties to one it's antecedent units, the Staffordshire Regiment. Soldiers from the Potteries include LSgt John Baskeyfield VC, who's statue still stands tall in Festival Park. His story from WW2 on Operation Market Garden is a fine example of Courage and Selfless commitment, that MERCIAN Soldiers aspire to today. The Mercian Benevolent Fund (MBF) provides relief either generally or individually to past and present members of the regiment/former regiments and the dependants who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress by making grants of money or providing/paying for items, services or facilities to reduce the need, hardship or stress. The Hubb foundation typifies the motto of Stoke-on-Trent, 'Vis Unita Fortior' or 'United Strength is Stronger' mirrors the work of the Hubb and draws the community together. Their mission is to make improvements to the aspirations, achievements and life skills of young people and families Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity. STAND FIRM STRIKE HARD For media ops contact - communications@mercianregiment.co.uk or richard.joynes281@mod.gov.uk