Richard Poile, a former RAF Regiment reservist is preparing to tackle the gruelling Fan Dance Challenge to raise funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund charity.

The Fan Dance Challenge is a well-known British Military training event used by both the SAS (Special Air Service) and SBS (Special Boat Service) as an indication of a candidate's potential to pass Special Force's selection process.

The event is a 24km non-navigational race over two sides of Pen Y Fan, the highest mountain in the Brecon Beacons. The route is a combination of steady slopes, testing inclines and rocky terrains.

Richard, who till turn 51 in August, said that despite not being a fitness fanatic he will be striving to complete the arduous course in 5-6 hours. He will be taking part in the course in full military gear on July 5th.

The RAF Benevolent Fund is the RAF’s leading welfare charity providing help and support to serving and past personnel, and their families.

The fund also provides facilities for respite breaks, relationship counselling and airplay, a project supporting children and young people growing up on RAF stations.

Richard said: "In some cases, the RAF Benevolent Fund may be the only means of help available to some former personnel and, therefore, I feel passionately about helping to make sure it receives our help and support.

"There are many unseen things that can affect RAF personnel at some stage, something that may need help long after a person has left the RAF."

"5 or 6 hours of pain for me will hopefully result in raising money that somebody in need, or their families, can benefit from" - Richard Poile

Richard has created a sponsorship page to raise as much as possible for the very worthy cause, stating that the charity is very close to his heart.

Mr Poile said it does not matter how much or how little someone can donate, just that they donate so that those who are serving, and have served in the armed forces can receive the best help and support.

He wants to support these individuals and their families, "for everything they have done including sadly, in some cases, paying the ultimate price with their lives."

To sponsor Richard and donate to the RAF Benevolent Fund, click here: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/richardpoile.