Personnel from RAF St Mawgan have successfully completed a three-day, 70-mile charity walk across Cornwall to raise vital funds and awareness for Newquay Foodbank, highlighting the growing issue of food insecurity across the region.
The team, including serving and civilian personnel, dressed as various food items set off from Newquay on Tuesday morning before travelling through Newlyn East, Truro, Penryn, Redruth and Camborne, returning to RAF St Mawgan on Thursday afternoon in glorious sunshine. Covering more than 20 miles each day, the walkers were supported by members of the public, local communities, and Foodbank volunteers along the route.
This year’s effort has already surpassed last year’s fundraising total, with donations continuing to grow as awareness spreads.
Warrant Officer Kev Riddle, who led the event, said:
We didn’t expect to surpass last year’s achievements, but the support from organisations, schools, sports clubs and local agencies has been extraordinary. We’re genuinely overwhelmed.
In Cornwall, which has the highest concentration of veterans in England, RAF St Mawgan personnel live and work within the same communities that may need foodbank support now or in the future. Organisers emphasised that foodbanks offer far more than food, providing signposting and support to individuals and families facing difficult circumstances.
While monetary donations from the walk will support Newquay Foodbank directly, food donations (over 700KG equating to 1180 meals) collected along the way were delivered to the foodbanks.
Throughout the challenge, walkers engaged with residents, heard personal stories, and encouraged supporters to follow along online and share images to increase visibility for the cause. The team hopes the event will inspire broader community action to help address increasing levels of food poverty across Cornwall.
The team’s spirit and resilience have been remarkable. Walking 70 miles is no small task, but doing so in support of those facing hardship shows the strength of character of the whole force we’re privileged to have here at RAF St Mawgan.
RAF St Mawgan Station Commander, Wing Commander Helen Simpson.
The incredible fundraising efforts of RAF St Mawgan, raising over £3,600 for Newquay Foodbank, is the equivalent of supporting more than 130 households in our community with essential food. At a time when, as a charity, we are facing increasing challenges in raising funds, this contribution provides truly meaningful support to those who need it most. We are incredibly grateful.
Zoe Hardacre from Newquay Foodbank.
Members of the public wishing to support the campaign can donate via the Newquay Foodbanks JustGiving page or continue to spread awareness through local networks and social media.
