Evesham man to follow footsteps of father to Normandy for charity ride

Philip Jones, from Sedgeberrow, will be travelling to Normandy on Wednesday, September 4 and will be covering over 250 miles by bike to commemorate those who fought and fell in the D-Day campaign in 1944. 

After serving in the Army for 23 years he has seen first-hand the amazing work that SSAFA does for the Armed Forces community.

The 58-year-old said: “I need a challenge and I have always pledged to visit my father’s beach in Normandy.  

"My father was a tank commander and landed on Gold Beach.  This is my homage to him and his comrades.

“I’m incredibly honoured to be joining the D-Day Cycle Ride team to commemorate those who fought and fell in D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. This is the perfect opportunity to give something back to this wonderful charity. 

“The money raised from the D-Day Cycle Ride will help SSAFA continue to provide lifelong support to the Armed Forces community.”

Philip hopes to raise £1,500 which will help SSAFA continue its vital work with the Armed Forces family.

James Grant, head of corporate fundraising and events at SSAFA, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Philip for signing up to take part in the D-Day Cycle Ride.

"It promises to be an incredibly special event to commemorate the lives lost at D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.”

To support Philip, please visit justgiving.com/Philip-Jones51.

To find out more about SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, or to get involved, visit ssafa.org.uk.

The SSAFA charity provides lifelong support to anyone who is currently serving or has ever served in the forces, and their families. This includes both regulars and reserves.