A VETERAN has completed his own tribute to the Royal Air Force, walking a total of 100 miles to raise money.

Jeffrey Long, 86, walked a total of 100 miles at various RAF bases, including RAF Odiham, on Wednesday last week.

Jeffrey completed the trek in a bid to support the RAF Benevolent Fund and Support Our Paras, as well as celebrating the 100th birthday of the RAF.

While he is no stranger to fundraising, Jeffrey’s challenge this year was one of his more ambitious.

He walked 10 miles on 10 consecutive days, visiting a different RAF base each time.

Personnel from RAF Odiham, including the station commander, Group Captain Lee Turner, joined Jeffrey along the route to show support and boost morale.

Jeffrey, who served in the Army from 1950 to 1957 before leaving due to injury, admits age had forced him to slow down in recent years, and he’s not carrying the heavy packs he once did, but he remains as determined as ever to raise funds and awareness for his charities of choice.

He said: “I feel fine, absolutely fine. I’m ready to get going on my next big walk now but I have a little time until that starts in November.

“I am truly touched that so many came out to support me this year.

“I had so much support along the way and so many friendly faces joined me on the walks, which was great.

“The Paras have a relationship with the RAF, they are very good to us.

“It made perfect sense to me to support this wonderful charity, in the year of the RAF’s centenary as well as the Paras’ charity, of course.”

Aaron Tillyer, regional fundraiser for the RAF Benevolent Fund, said: “We cannot thank Jeffrey enough for choosing to support us in his recent challenge.

“I’ve had the pleasure of walking with Jeffrey every day and we have not stopped laughing. His enthusiasm and zest for life is infectious. We could certainly all learn a thing or two from him.

“Supporters like Jeffrey are vital to see the welfare work the Fund carries out continue, without it we simply could not do what we do – ensuring no member of the RAF Family faces adversity alone. It has been such an honour getting to know him and from everyone at the RAF Benevolent Fund, a heartfelt thank you Jeffrey.”

This year, the fundraising website Just Giving has nominated Jeffrey for the Endurance Fundraiser of the Year Award, where the public can vote for him at justgiving.com/awards/2018/vote.

To support Jeffrey’s walk, go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JeffreyLongMBE.