2009 Cherbourg to Pegasus Bridge4 walkers, 4 days, 1 support vehicle and 112 miles to cover
This sponsored walk was inspired by an event which took place 22 years ago. In 1987 Noel O’Driscoll and Rob Jones walked to Pegasus Bridge from the Bristol Suspension Bridge, raising a huge amount of much-needed funds for BLESMA and all the Ex Servicemen which it supports.
Many of you will recognise the name Pegasus Bridge, taken just after midnight on 06-Jun-44. The story of the airborne assault on the bridge was immortalised in the classic film “The Longest Day”.
Having just reached the chair of his Masonic Lodge, it had been Noel’s wish to make BLESMA his chosen charity for this year. Tragically, Noel suddenly passed away in January, so four of his “Brothers” took up the mantle and walked the 112 miles from Cherbourg to Pegasus Bridge, in order that BLESMA would not miss out.
In October, in less than favourable weather, our four stalwarts completed the walk in just over 4 days, traversing the D-Day Normandy Beaches of Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, covering more than the length of a marathon every day.
Your continued financial support is appreciated. You may read more about this achievement and the use to which this money will be put at
www.blesma.org and
http://www.glosmasons.org.uk/Thank you very much for your kind donation
All donations go directly to BLESMA: (British Limbless Ex Service Men's Association) is the national charity for limbless serving and ex service men and women and their dependants and widows.