Five friends will be wheelbarrowing through a large part of Powys in memory of a Kington soldier who died in Afghanistan.
“Wheelbarrow Across Wales” is in memory of Lance Corporal Oliver Thomas, who died in a helicopter crash in Kandahar, Afghanistan, on April 26, 2014.
Oliver, from Kington, was in the Reserves, serving with the Intelligence Corps. Four other men died in the crash.
The fundraiser is being undertaken by five of Oliver’s university friends: Tristan Parker; Arul Umapathy; Jack Powell; Matty Lewin; and Tom Harrison.
“This journey is not only a tribute to Oliver but also an opportunity to raise funds for two charities that would have resonated with him, SSAFA and United Through Sport,” said Tristan.
“These organisations provide vital support to service members, veterans, and their families, as well as promoting the power of sports in bringing communities together.
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“As we embark on this incredible adventure, you can join us in honouring Oliver’s legacy and supporting these worthy causes. Any donation, no matter how big or small, will be gratefully received and will contribute to the ongoing efforts of SSAFA and United Through Sport.
“Together, we can celebrate the life of a fallen hero, honour traditions, and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.”
The friends met Oliver either at Reading University Officer Training Corps or knew him over a shared love of cricket, a beer, or all three.
Even the machine has donated by J&P Turner Garden Centre – has meaning, as the quintet’s fundraiser is an homage to Kington's Annual Wheelbarrow Race.
The team will leave Machynlleth War Memorial (What Three Words: cabs.truckload.resides) at 10.30am on Monday, June 3 and end at the Annual Kington Wheelbarrow Race on Saturday, June 8 – stopping at Dylife, Llanidloes, Abbeycwmhir, Felindre and Knighton along the way.
“These organisations provide vital support to service members, veterans, and their families, as well as promoting the power of sports in bringing communities together,” added Tristan.
“As we embark on this incredible adventure, you can join us in honouring Oliver’s legacy and supporting these worthy causes. Any donation, no matter how big or small, will be gratefully received and will contribute to the ongoing efforts of SSAFA and United Through Sport.
“Together, we can celebrate the life of a fallen hero, honour traditions, and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.”
To help Tristan, Arul, Jack, Matty, and Tom reach their target in memory of their fallen friend, visit givewheel.com/fundraising/2840/wheelbarrow-across-wales
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