I am Private Shirley, serving in the Royal Logistic Corps, I am raising money to support the vital support that ABF provide to comrades and families. In the 12 years I have served I have seen the support that the ABF provides to soldiers and their families, I'm supporting ABF charity so they can continue their support, as they do an amazing job. I am doing a 24 hour walk with 15kg backpack around Catterick Garrison 20th - 21st November 2020 starting at 06.00am.

I wanted to do something to help support the Charity at this challenging time, where most of their normal fundraising events have been cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic. The need for the Charity’s support hasn’t decreased during Covid 19, so I wanted to play my part in supporting them so that they are then able to support soldiers, veterans and their families in times of genuine need. As a serving soldier, I know how important The Soldiers’ Charity is to the Army.

In the British Army, the Annual Fitness Test is designed to assess soldiers' lower and upper body strength and endurance. The test was formerly known as the Combat Fitness Test – and is still colloquially known by soldiers as the CFT. The test involves a fast-paced march at fifteen minutes per mile (brisk walking pace), in full combat gear including the SA80 personal weapon, across rough terrain and roads. The exact weight of the equipment carried depends upon the type of unit and it is usually 15 kg to 25 kg dependent on service or arm, but all will cover a distance of 8 miles in less than 2 hours.

Please support my challenge and I would be grateful for any donations, large or small, in aid of the British Army’s national charity. Thank you.