I am Mike Doyle an ex RAF veteran and I completed the 2013 Catterick Paras10 tab last September when I was 76 years old. I did it because I wanted to see if I could complete the course and earn a medal which I got. The training and preparation I underwent last year proved to be wanting in many ways. My training this time has been systematic and intense and has benefitted from the advice of those well experienced in the demands of this type of event.

 This year I completed Colchester, which I found quite tough in spite of my rigorous preparation, it required a different strategy that my training did not allow for. Next year will be different. I am now preparing for Catterick Paras10 2014 tab with an even more rigorous training regime which, short of popping my clogs or other debilitating condition, (occupational hazards at my age) I intend to complete in a more respectable time.  My reasons are still as set out below. 

I am the father of a serving NCO in the RAF Regiment who has seen action in most theatres of hostilities since 1990. He came through virtually unscathed but a lot of sons and daughters did not; I want to do my bit to help raise money that can be used to ease the burden of them and their families. Last year I competed for myself, this year I am competing for them.

When the military system consigns you to the scrap heap for medical reasons (which happened to me) or redundancy just remember the spirit that got you into the system in the first place is still there. It may be buried under trauma , pain or bitter disappointment, dig deep and get it back and show the system and the world that they cannot keep a good man or woman down.

The British Fighting Forces historically have been and still are the finest in the world because among their greatest assets is the ability to recover from setbacks and move on stronger. They deserve our support in whatever way we can give it.

I am overwhelmed by your comments and support that I have received in the last few days. I never anticipated that my effort would arouse such interest and warmth from so many people. I hope to raise the bar at Catterick and do you all proud, my thanks to you all and for your donations.

Catterick this year was much tougher than last year and I just about managed it though I was over the three hours. I had hoped to do better time wise; however I will try harder next year at Colchester and Catterick. My thanks go out to all those who have helped and supported me so far,and it's back to the gym and training for me.

I am surprised and disappointed that Colchester Para 10s was postponed. Since it is an event to test the mettle of those who participate I feel it should be down to the individual to decide whether or not to drop out. It is clear that Health and Safety legislation and the growing litigation culture is in danger of creating a society of wimps within our nation. "Bulldog" and "Great" were the words used to describe the spirit of Britain and many brave servicemen fought and died to prove it. Let there be no more postponements and let those of us who can, do it. 

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