A charity is asking runners to complete an 11km race to raise money for disabled veterans.

Care For Veterans, which is based in Worthing, is hosting the Race for Remembrance throughout November.

The event is virtual so participants can complete the challenge anywhere they like.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for runners all over the world to support Care For Veterans in a unique virtual race,” said Christine Gillott, who is organising the Race for Remembrance.

“The race is a brilliant chance to raise vital funds for the support and rehabilitation of our disabled veterans, enabling them to reach their goals, rebuild independence and mobility and maintain the best quality of life possible.”

The charity runs a care home in Boundary Road which has space for up to 60 disabled veterans from the age of 18 upwards.

It specialises in care for those with acquired brain injuries and degenerative neurological conditions.

Current resident veteran 89-year-old Vardre Holland served with the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers and was stationed in Libya in 1957 during the Suez Canal Crisis.

He came to live at Care For Veterans in 2015 after suffering from a stroke which caused weakness, stiffness and a lack of control in the left half of his body. 

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Vardre said: “In REME, I was a vehicle mechanic stationed initially in Honiton and Taunton, and then I had a year in Libya at the time of the Suez – that’s obviously why they were trying to train me to be a mechanic. It was a bit terrifying.

“You’re thrust with the Lee-Enfield Rifle and five live rounds. It’s only quite recently that I found out the Egyptian enemy had semi-automatic weapons with magazines with hundreds of rounds, whilst we had just one single shot.

“History is important. I participate in remembrance because I feel that it’s important to give something back."

The charity says funds raised from the Race for Remembrance will help veterans like Vardre continue to access the vital services they need to rebuild their strength and ensure they maintain as much independence as possible. 

Participants can tailor the challenge to their ability, as long as it is based on the number 11, for example 11,000 steps a day for 11 days or an 11km run.

All runners who complete the race will be awarded a medal and certificate to remember their achievements.

Registration costs £15. There is no minimum sponsorship.
To sign up for the Race for Remembrance, go to www.careforveterans.org.uk/race-for-remembrance-2022 or call 01903 218444.