PERSONNEL from RAF Benson have gone to the ends of the earth and back, at least in theory.

While deployed in Afghanistan the men and women of 78 Squadron A Flight went on a 10,000 mile trip without leaving their camp. The ordeal was the brainchild of Warrant Officer Ady Breslin and Sergeant Leigh Thomas who set them a challenge to complete over their 10-week tour – to row, cycle and run the distance between Afghanistan and RAF Benson three times for charity.

Warrant Officer Breslin said: “It really was a great atmosphere and helped to spur everyone along too.”

Over the course of their five-week challenge Warrant Officer Breslin’s men have already raised £1,800 which will go to two good causes.

Funds raised will go to the Royal Air Force Association and Southampton General Hospital Children’s Cardiology Unit which was chosen in recognition of the care they gave to Sgt Thomas’ daughter Charlotte when she had life-saving open-heart surgery in March.