RAF Brize Norton team trek to Mount Everest base camp

Rowan Martin, of the station's Air Movements Squadron, and Jack Gooderham and Corporal Jimmy Nutton, of its UK Mobile Air Movements Squadron, embarked on the journey to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

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

The group set a fundraising target of £3,000 (Image: RAF Benevolent Fund) The challenge involved 12 days of hiking through rough terrain, ascending to altitudes of 5,364 metres, all in a bid to raise £3,000.

The group have raised £2,553 so far through a fundraising page.

Mr Martin, who began organising the event in April 2023, said: "I was 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 trek has been one of the hardest but most memorable challenges we have ever attempted.

Rowan Martin (Image: RAF Benevolent Fund) "Trekking miles every day, from low to high altitudes and temperatures, it's certainly been a test of both physical and mental strength.

"From the start of planning in early 2023, we have finally achieved our goal of being the first to fly the RAF Benevolent Fund flag at Mount Everest base camp.

"We take great pride in knowing the money we have raised will be put to good use, helping those during difficult times."