Turned down by Army, Jack is determined to help the Armed Forces with epic run

●●Jack Poyser will, in May, attempt to run 800km in 20 days to raise cash for the charity Help for Heroes

DESPITE facing a setback in his aspirations to join the Army due to epilepsy, one man from Macclesfield is gearing up for an extraordinary challenge to support the Armed Forces community.

Jack Poyser, a 31-year-old heating systems designer, is set to embark on a remarkable journey to run 800km in just 20 days.

Despite being refused entry into the Army years ago due to his epilepsy, Jack is determined to help support the Armed Forces community.

“When I was turned down, it was something that stuck with me for a long time. The feeling of inadequacy and selfconsciousness in the beginning with my epilepsy journey held me back,” Jack said.

Years later, Jack’s admiration for the Armed Forces remained steadfast, leading him to explore alternative ways to support veterans. It led him to the decision to run 800km as a tribute to the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings and as a fundraiser for the Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes.

Jack’s motivation stems from a deepseated desire to give back to those who serve their country, despite facing personal setbacks in his own military aspirations.

“I will always have this feeling that because I couldn’t be there alongside them on the front supporting them, I can do my part this way by supporting veterans. It’s my way of giving to them without being there. It’s my way of still being part of it all,” Jack said.

He added: “Despite my initial disappointment, I still hold our Armed Forces in the highest regard and wanted to do something to help those who serve our country.

“I first got an idea in 2022, but I was then injured. I later visited Auschwitz and had a feeling when I left there that I really wanted to hit it hard.

“I decided to read into the work Help for Heroes does with veterans, and I was shocked at how much they offer and what they do for the Armed Forces community.”

Beginning his journey on 3 May from Albemarle Barracks in Northumberland, Jack plans to traverse a challenging route, passing through various military establishments including the Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire and Norton Barracks in Worcestershire. Jack is looking to average 40km a day.

Reflecting on the physical and mental challenges ahead, Jack said: “I’m nervous about it!

“But you keep going and run further and further. I’m shocked how my body has managed to keep up and it’ll be a unique journey.”

Help for Heroes Area Fundraising Manager, Rhys Edwards, said: “Jack has set himself quite a challenge and hopes to finish it in 20 days.

“We wish him well and would welcome any offers of accommodation or support for him along the route, which can be viewed online. Thanks, Jack – and may your trainers hold out!”

Help for Heroes supports veterans, and their families, from any branch of the UK military – regulars or reserves – irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians (and their families) who worked alongside our Armed Forces.

To donate to Jack’s run, visit justgiving. com/page/800kmfor80years.