Speedy helps generate electricity and funds for charity

A charity in Exmouth has been able to generate over £80,000 for charity with the help of an electricity boost from Speedy Services.

Former Royal Marine and event director Alan Hardy, organises the annual Endurance Commando Challenge at Woodbury Common in Exmouth to raise vital funds for a charity that aids serving and retired Royal Marines and their dependents.

Alan explains: "There are several key ingredients to be able to make our event a success including mud, water, tons of enthusiasm and of course the eager and willing competitors who all have the Royal Marines ethos of Grit, Determination and Sense of Humour and our sponsors. However, one vital element that we couldn’t manage without is electricity.

"There’s a huge electrical demand, powering everything from the catering equipment to the radios. In the past we’ve just plugged in and hoped for the best, but thanks to the two generators loaned by Speedy for the first time it was a weight of our minds to know that the electricity supply could be guaranteed."

Around 500 people took part in the challenge, on 15th June, in aid of the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund. The Fund helps Marines who are wounded in action, supports those who face successive tours in high-threat environments, provides continuing care for veterans and gives grants to the families of those who pay the ultimate price.

The event, which looks set to raise over £100,000 once all monies are collated, gives a rare opportunity for civilians to run the same tough course as Royal Marine recruits have to complete when earning their Green Berets. One small difference is that the Marines must do it within 80 minutes, carrying around 35 pounds of kit.

Speedy’s involvement was the result of a request from electrical distribution specialist ide Systems, which regularly supports the Commando Challenge by lending equipment and encouraging its staff to run.

Arrangements were made between contacts at ide and Speedy who, by coincidence, were also former Royal Marines. For both men it was a cause close to their heart, although neither of them had a wish to re-live their experience of the course by running it!

Shelley Kemp, Head of One Plan, Speedy’s social responsibility programme says: "We were very glad to be asked to help with this event and to be able to contribute.

"At Speedy we take our responsibility towards the communities we serve very seriously and so we were delighted that our generators helped to make such a worthwhile venture possible. Congratulations to everyone involved in the Commando Challenge on a magnificent achievement".

Donations to the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund can be made via the website www.rmctf.org.uk. Quote ‘Commando’ to link your donation to this event.