RAF veteran says assisting blind climber will be 'massive honour'

An RAF veteran from the Isle of Man is spending Armed Forces Day guiding a blind veteran up the tallest mountain in the British Isles. 

Gary Thomas answered a call for assistance from the Royal Air Force Mountain Rescue Association.

Today (27 June) he’s helping 87-year-old John Banfield conquer Ben Nevis.

The 57-year-old said: “Being a veteran myself, and an ex-member of the Royal Air Force Mountain Rescue Service, I feel honoured to be asked to assist in such a worthy cause and I jumped at the opportunity.

“My passion for the mountains continued after my service ended in 2007 and I’ve recently started a walking company on the Isle of Man to share my passion with those who may not have had the opportunities I’ve had.

“I’m really looking forward to helping John; we’re going to start early and give ourselves plenty of time to ensure it’s an enjoyable trek.”

John, who will become the oldest person to take on the challenge, lives in Milton Keynes.  

He completed National Service in the Army with the Royal Engineers as a sapper between 1958 and 1960 then enlisted part time with the National Service to serve for another three years.

The duo is aiming to raise money for the charity Blind Veterans.

Gary told Manx Radio he's proud to be involved:

“It would be wonderful to reach the top of Ben Nevis. I’d be proving that age and sight loss are not a barrier to any challenge you set your mind on.” - John

You can find out more Blind Veterans UK HERE and donate to John’s fundraiser by clicking HERE.