Teen’s RAF Benevolent Fund cycle

Jesse Johnstone-Brown has dreams of being a Royal Air Force Regiment officer. But before then, he's helped the Airforce's Benevolent Fund with a 75 mile long cycle.

The RAF Benevolent Fund reported on his challenge before it was due to take place. Aged only 15, the fundraiser was set to head off on the trip with Paul Tomlinson, his uncle, while Paul's partner, Steve Lusk,was set to be on hand in a support van, it said. 

The bike challenge went from Westgate on Sea to Buckingham Palace, London, and was due to take place from July 21st to July 22nd, suggesting it is now complete.   

Director of fundraising, Mike Neville, said in the run up to the ride that the charity very much appreciate Jesse's support.

Because of the teen and its other supporters, the fund can help many people connected with the RAF when they need it, he added.

"I like helping people, no matter who they are, plus, I wanted to complete a challenge. I chose the RAF Benevolent Fund because I want a military career and because they help both serving and former airmen," said Jesse.

The teenager currently belongs to the Air Training Corps and is now in the summer holiday period, following a year of GCSE study.

The Benevolent Fund helps RAF personnel, those currently serving and those who have left, as well as their dependent children and partners.

During last year alone it spent more than £18 million giving this help to such people.

Bike rides are a popular way to bring in money for good causes.

Just one other recent example is being taken by Craig Moorcroft, who has his sights set on a 24-hour London to Newcastle ride for charity Caudwell Children, the Watford Observer reports.

The charity has given support to the Abbots Langley resident's daughter, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and he wants to bring in £8,000 for the cause.