Rhidian will go the extra mile for fallen comrades

Soldier’s run marks centenary of Great War

A squaddie has vowed to run 100 miles to mark the centenary of the start of the Great War.

Rhidian Jones, 43, is raising cash for Poppy Scotland and the Royal Signals Benevolent Fund in honour of fallen comrades.

Fighting ceased in 1918 and the soldier has vowed to raise the same amount across six charity challenges.

He said: “I think this is a very significant year as we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Great War.

“I wanted to do something special on this occasion for two outstanding charities that support our veterans and families.

“My challenge starts next month and will finish with an army fitness test before the Remembrance Sunday parade.

“Remembrance Sunday will be a very poignant occasion this year and I hope my knees survive that long.”

Rhidian is Commanding Officer (Reservers) of 32 Signal Regiment.

He served 16 years in the regulars with the Royal Corps of Signals – including tours of Iraq, Bosnia and Sierra Leone.

The Johnstone dad will rack up the miles and runs across the UK and Europe.

Rhidian is tackling the 40-mile Lanyard Trophy run in Nuneaton next month.

He will also battle through the Race for the Sun, in York, that will see teams march, run, cycle and canoe, before he takes on the Yorkshire Three Peaks marathon.

The serviceman will travel to Oosterbeek in the Netherlands for the annual nine-mile Airborne March.

The run takes place on the anniversary of the Battle of Arnhem each year as a tribute to the 1,750 British and Polish soldiers who lost their lives during the fight.

Rhidian will clock-up the last of his remaining miles at the Great Scottish Run half- marathon in September.

He added: “I’m in the army reserves so have been running all my life.

“At the moment, I try and go running about three or four times a week.

“It can be a challenge fitting in the training but I have a very understanding family and have to take every opportunity I can to get out and do it.

“I even run with weights 13 miles from home to work in Glasgow occasionally, but this means a 5am start.

“My regiment are good and will train with me whenever they can.

“My wife is also a runner and we normally try to find time once a week for a run.

“Otherwise I have to train alone, or at least with my music.”

The Royal Signals Benevolent Fund helps squaddies in need or distress.

Poppy Scotland provides and funds a variety of vital services.

It supports those returning from service and families affected by it, including widows, widowers and children.

 To support Rhidian’s fundraising drive, visit www. justgiving. com/ fundraising/ rhidian-jones

I have a very understanding family Rhidian Jones