A retired paramedic is looking forward to raising money for Kent’s precious air ambulance by taking part in a fun challenge event on Sunday (June 30).

Laurence Moore served with the county’s ambulance service for the best part of four decades and for one year on the air ambulance.

He said that during his time with the air ambulance – now called Air Ambulance Kent Surrey and Sussex – he got to know well the three crew members who tragically died when the helicopter crashed in 1998.

Now, he says he wants to raise money to honour the memory of his former colleagues by doing the KM Charity Walk.

And despite being 83 years old, Mr Moore aims to do the 10-mile route; a five-mile option is also available for people preferring a more leisurely option.

Mr Moore said: “I served at Maidstone Ambulance for 37 years, and was one of three brothers who served for over 100years between us on the ambulance service.

“I served on the Kent Air Ambulance for a year, a couple of years before it tragically crashed. I knew the crew well.

“Hence my interest in collecting money for the air ambulance.”

Mr Moore said he had been training ahead of the challenge, walking 10.3 miles last Sunday, and added: “I just wonder how many 80-plus-year-olds will be taking part.”

The walk starts and finishes at Audley Mote House in Mote Park, where participants will be able to enjoy a barbecue served up by the retirement village, live music courtesy of Kent band Acoustic Tones, and delicious treats from Simply Ice Cream.

The event is also supported by headline partner Specsavers, and Benenden Hospital Trust, Maidstone Riverside Rotary, Maidstone Ramblers, the Woodstove Trading Company, the Wellbeing People, the Kent Wildlife Trust and Stronger Kent Communities.

It costs £10 per individual, but there is a two-for-one discount and children go free.

See kmcharitywalk.co.uk.