Taunton RAF serviceman takes on Mount Everest climb for charity

On October 4 2024, a team of RAF serving personnel set off on the challenging 80-mile trek to the Base Camp of Mount Everest to raise money for the RAF’s leading welfare charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The team, from RAF Brize Norton, consists of AS1 Rowan Martin of RAF Brize Norton Air Movements Squadron and AS1 Jack Gooderham and Corporal Jimmy Nutton of RAF Brize Norton UK Mobile Air Movements Squadron.

The challenge will involve 12 days of hiking rough terrain, ascending to altitudes of 5364 metres with hopes of reaching their fundraising target of £3,000 for the fund.

(Image: Contributed)

Rowan, 28, from Taunton, started organising the event in April 2023, recruiting a team to join him on the challenge.

He said: “I have been interested in taking on the trek to Mount Everest Base Camp for a few years and I wanted to take part to raise money for a worthy cause.

“The RAF Benevolent Fund has been the heart of the Royal Air Force for more than 100 years.

“It has a proud history of supporting personnel through thick and thin, providing practical, emotional and financial support whenever needed, deserving every bit of publicity and recognition it can get.

“This expedition will undoubtedly prove to be a huge challenge for all of us – hiking 80 miles, battling fatigue and the effects of extreme altitude.

“We want to represent the charity who take care of our fellow personnel during times of need, and we will take great pride in achieving our goal; standing at 5364 metres to fly the RAF Benevolent Fund’s flag at the Base Camp of the world’s highest mountain.”

The team have raised over £2000 for the Fund so far. You can donate to support their fundraiser on JustGiving.

The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional, and practical assistance to serving and retired RAF personnel and their families.

This includes grants to help with financial difficulty, mental health support, Airplay youth clubs, and more.