Peterborough man to complete Royal Marine style challenge to raise money for veterans

The challenge is akin to what a Royal Marine would have to complete as part of their training to earn their Green Beret.

It is a speed march of 30 miles across Dartmoor that potential recruits have to complete within eight hours, whilst carrying approximately 18kg (40lbs) of equipment on their back.

Nikos (42), has some military background, but not in the Royal Marines but has always had an interest in the corps.

He said: “I’ve always been a big fan on the marines, I’ve got a lot of their memorabilia and I know friends and their children that are serving.

“The main reason I wanted to help their charity is because of the support they offer to people when they leave. A lot might have experienced war, PTSD or feelings of suicide and they rely on charities as there is no government support available. It’s a real shame as I strongly believe that no one should be left behind.

“Given the pandemic, my wedding photography business has suffered so I thought if I don’t take this oppportunity to help out now, I might not get the opportunity again.”

As well as raising money, the yomp and it’s nine month training process represent a personal journey for Nikos and his supporters, who have been following his progress on social media.

He added: “I have suffered with depression and have been on antidepressants for the last 7 years but not in the last 20 weeks since I started the training.

“I would recommend to anyone out there struggling to seek help from a doctor or therapist, there is always someone to talk to, and to give exercise a try, it can really help you feel better. I’ve already started to feel more human again.

“It’s also been great to hear from people who have been through similar things. I’ve had messages from a lady suffering with weight issues and a man who went through a traumatic expereince at knife point and is now coming off antidepresaants tell me that I have helped them.

Every donation inspires me.

The yomp itself is taking place on the March 3rd 2021, giving Nikos plenty of time to work towards the 16 minutes a mile pace required to complete it in under eight hours. Although this is only a requirement for those seeking to join the Royal Marines.

Instead, Nikos is just trying to raise money for their charity and has been completing a series of runs near his home in Stanground aswell as around Yorkshire and Derbyshire. He is being supported along the way by his girlfriend Claire and says the military mindset is really helping him push through.

He said: “The military have a unique state of mind to help them do what they have to do and that can really help when you have a big challenge like this.

“When I’m training and I feel pain I love it because it reminds me that I’m doing good. The first week was definitely emotional but I’m happy with the progress I’m making so far.”

Nikos is hoping to arrange to have t-shirts and banners printed, when factories re-open, to help spread the word and anyone interested in supporting him can click here.