In October 2012, Royal Marine and member of the Elite Special Boat Service, Paul “Woody” Woodland sadly lost his life in a training exercise, before he was due to return for a second tour of duty in Afghanistan. Woody was born, bred and schooled in Penarth, South Wales, and had always wanted to be a Royal Marine.

In Paul's memory, the charity Woody’s Lodge was born. Woody's lodge is a meeting place for those who’ve served in the Armed Forces or Emergency Services. At Woody’s Lodge you will find expert advice & support, friendship & camaraderie as well like-minded people who have similar experiences to you. With locations in North, South and West Wales, they provide Armed Forces support across Wales.

Woody’s Lodge are also on hand to help the families and loved ones of those who have served. It can take some time and compromising to re-adjust to normal life after active service has ended. Their meeting space provides a neutral space to get the help veterans and their families back on track.

The Royal Marines are 360 years old this month and so I will be running 360km around Penarth Rugby Club's ground throughout the month of October. There are 4 bins in each corner of the ground and one lap is known as the 4-bin challenge, I will therefore be doing a 360km 4 bin challenge which is the equivalent of just over 8.5 marathons.

Anything you could give to support this fantastic charity would be really appreciated and will go a long way to support ex-service personnel and their families.

Thank you!

Pete