MORE than 150 RAF personnel from the MOD offices in South Gloucestershire are set to take on the streets of Bristol for the half marathon later this month.

The RAF runners will take part in the gruelling 13.1-mile event on September 17 in aid of the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Among them is Steve Preston, 33, an engineering officer at MOD Abbey Wood, who is set to take part with his wife Naomi.

He said: “The RAF Benevolent Fund is a charity that I have had a lot of contact with through my job.

“I’ve seen the direct benefit that they have on serving RAF personnel and veterans – they offer a huge variety of services including financial, practical and emotional support, so it was an easy decision to raise money for them.

“We’ve competed in marathons and relay races before, but this will still be a real challenge for us, as Naomi fell ill about three months ago and is still recovering. Being the trooper that she is, she still plans to take part, even if she has to walk a little bit!”

Paul Hewson, regional director for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “To have the support of more than 150 serving personnel for one event is incredible.

“Steve is doing something truly worthy for the RAF Benevolent Fund, and the efforts that he and Naomi are going to for us will ensure that we can continue to provide such a wide spectrum of care to our deserving beneficiaries. I wish them both the very best on the day!”

Steve is hoping to raise more than £400 through the run, as well as hosting a charity barbecue and quiz night.

To support his efforts, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/steveandnaomi.