Three Air Traffic Controllers from RAF Benson cycled from the Royal Air Force Station in Oxfordshire to Paris this weekend. The team cycled over 250 miles reaching the French Capital on Sunday.

Flight Sergeant Jonathan Burt-Matthews,Sergeant Ian Emery and Squadron Leader Simon Stait set themselves the challenge a couple of months ago and for two of the team it was a big challenge as they are in their own words “not pro-cyclists!” When talking about the challenge they said”We aimed to complete our challenge in two days, cycling just over 100 miles per day… Just a few more than our daily two-mile ride to work!”

When setting themselves the challenge the team decided to raise funds for our charity. They said “We’re all fathers to children brought up in military families. We are supporting this charity as they in turn support children like ours who spend their lives moving from home to home and have to deal with parents spending long periods of time away overseas.”

Louise, Founder of the charity said “It was so lovely to see the photos of the RAF Benson cycling team in Paris. They did so well cycling so far in 48 hours with only four hours sleep! The money they have raised will make a big difference to our work; we are so grateful to them.”

The team have smashed their fundraising target of £800 by raising over £1,300. You can still sponsor the team here.