A 64-year-old ex-RAF corporal from Cambridgeshire is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity.

Ely Standard: Ex-RAF corporal Martin McCloy is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity.Ex-RAF corporal Martin McCloy is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity. (Image: Archant)

Martin McCloy sets off on the ride on March 31 with the aim of raising £500 for the RAF Benevolent Fund, the RAF’s leading welfare charity.

The two-day challenge begins at RAF Halton and finishes at RAF Cosford on April 1, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force.

Martin, who already raised more than half of his fundraising target with £265 donated so far, says he is a keen cyclist but has never before taken on an event of this scale.

Ely Standard: Ex-RAF corporal Martin McCloy is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity.Ex-RAF corporal Martin McCloy is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity. (Image: Archant)

“I started my RAF career in 1970 as an apprentice at RAF Halton and had a great career before finishing at RAF Cosford as a weapons technician in 1981,” he said.

“I wanted to do something special to celebrate my RAF career as well as honouring the Royal Air Force in such an important year.”

Martin has previously cycled from RAF Coningsby to the 272 Squadron ATC headquarters in Wisbech, while also raising money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Ely Standard: Ex-RAF corporal Martin McCloy is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity.Ex-RAF corporal Martin McCloy is gearing up for a 120-mile cycle challenge between two RAF stations in aid of charity. (Image: Archant)

He added: “I want to raise at least £500 for the RAF Benevolent Fund. During my time in the RAF I became aware of the work that they do supporting the RAF Family so to me it makes perfect sense to donate to them and give something back.”

Mark Quinn, regional director for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “Support from individuals like Martin is invaluable.

“As a part of the RAF Family himself, it’s a wonderful feeling knowing that Martin is willing to go the extra mile to show give something back to the RAF Benevolent Fund.

“The RAF Benevolent Fund is the RAF’s leading welfare charity with a proud tradition of looking after its own.

“We are there for all serving and former members of the RAF as well as their partners and dependent children.

“Last year the fund supported more than 54,000 members of the RAF Family, from young children living on RAF stations to veterans needing support in later life.

“Martin’s incredible cycle ride will help us raise the funds we need to continue our vital work.”

To support Martin visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/perardua.