A group of five RAF servicemen from Brize Norton have completed a 24km SAS selection march in the Brecon Beacons to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

The infamous Fan Dance Race is a special forces test used to test physical and mental strength.

The Brize Norton team was lead and organised by 27-year-old Sam Rawlings.

Mr Rawlings completed the challenge in three hours and 52 minutes and he raised more than £500 in the process.

Read also: Woman fighting cannabis court case tells jury 'I am way ahead of my time'

Mr Rawlings said: “We do a lot of Loaded Marches in work with the RAF Regiment covering various distances and carrying various different weights, but I really wanted to push myself to complete this longer distance over the Brecon Beacons. It was tough as the conditions were horrendous on the day, but it was worth every minute of pain to raise money for this worthy cause.”

The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional and practical assistance to service and retired RAF personnel and their families.

The charity also helps families by providing grants to help with financial difficulty and offer specialist advice on benefits and support with care and needs.

Read also: K2 Recruitment in Bicester 'cycle to Australia' to support bushfire effort

In 2018 the charity spent £21m supporting more than 53,000 members of the RAF.

Charlotte Barmby, RAF Benevolent Fund Regional Fundraiser, said: “We’re thrilled that our supporters are focusing on fundraising for us so early in the year. The team should be seriously proud of themselves, not only for completing this epic challenge, but for raising money that will help to support the whole of the RAF family.”