A TEAM of military personnel from around the country are attempting to deal a blow to cancer by undertaking an arduous charity challenge.

The team will pull a half-ton antique Field Gun from RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire to HM Naval Base Clyde in Argyll and Bute to raise cash for the charity Military vs Cancer.

The leg of the 330-mile slog on September 18 will see personnel from HMS Victorious Port crew cover around 23 miles, running from Penrith to The Rose and Crown pub at Low Hesket.

“We really hope that as many people as possible come out to cheer us along and offer encouragement,” said Warrant Officer David Bathgate who is leading the challenge.

“Cancer is something that has touched almost everyone’s lives, whether you are battling the disease yourself, or have family or friends who have been affected. We wanted to harness the fighting spirit of the military and help make a difference to people’s lives.

“Our aim is to raise £100,000 and so far we’ve raised around £35,000 of our target. Your contribution counts, so I’d urge people to please search for Military vs Cancer on Virgin Money Giving and help us deal a blow to cancer!”

The Military vs Cancer charity was formed in 2018 by serving Royal Navy submariner Warrant Officer David Bathgate after five of his family members were affected by cancer in an 18-month period. Determined to do what he could to help others going through the pain his family endured, David enlisted the help of Armed Forces colleagues to raise £100,000 so that many more will survive their battle with the disease.