Navy rating running around city for charity close to his heart

A NAVAL seaman is putting his armed forces training to use as he raises money for charity.

Jake Lloyd, 18, from HMS Nelson, is running alongside friend Adam Jefferson to complete 100 miles in 20 days, in aid of Naomi House and Jacksplace.

The Hampshire hospice looks after children and young people at a time when they need that support the most.

Jake says the charity is of particular importance to him and his family, after one of their friends lost their daughter, Georgia.

The Able Rating said:

‘I’ve been in the Royal Navy for 25 months and will be going out on ship soon – but before I did that, I wanted to do something to raise some money for charity.

‘My dad’s friend lost his daughter in February and so I was keen to raise some money for the hospice. They helped the family through such a difficult time and this seemed like a good way of giving back to them.

‘Running 100 miles is nothing compared to the hard work and mental strain faced by the incredible hospice staff.’

Jake and Adam are running laps of HMNB Portsmouth every day as their route.

It takes them past some familiar landmarks – from the historic HMS Victory to the state-of-the-art HMS

Queen Elizabeth.

The pair had initially set a goal of £500, but since smashing past that are now well on their way to £1,000.

Jake said: ‘The support we’ve had so far has been incredible.

‘It’s so important that we do what we can for charities – everyone has something to give or to contribute, and no matter how big or how small that is, it’s enough to make a difference.

‘We’re trying to switch up our route a bit each time, but the important thing is getting it done.’

To support Jake and Adam on their fundraising quest, people can go to justgiving. com/fundraising/jakelloyd7.