Axminster youngsters in Commando challenge
Axminster youngsters in Commando challenge
A GROUP of young adults went on the run – to the delight of Axminster police.
They were competing in this year’s Royal Marines 10K Commando Challenge as part of a local initiative to steer youngsters away from crime.
Members of Axminster Neighbourhood Policing Team spent 15 weeks with the group after appealing for volunteers.
Some 25 people, aged 16-25, initially signed up for twice weekly training.
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The tough regime saw a number drop out after the first month, but a hard core of 15 stuck with it, along with three hardy police officers and two other adult helpers.
On the day they had an entry of 20, split into three teams – “Minster’s Finest”, “Minster’s Also Rans” and “Minster’s Also Walked”.
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They all completed the 10K mud and tunnels multi-terrain assault course without incident or injury and all claimed to have thoroughly enjoyed it, although it was not clear from some of their faces when they got to the sheep dip - an infamous underwater tunnel.
Axminster Neighbourhood Beat Manager Kevin Bennett said: “The aim of the project was to help form, develop and improve relationships between the police and young adults of our communities and distract them from anti-social behaviour.
“This aim was well and truly met, with many friendships being made that I’m sure will last for many years to come.”
The team has raised about �1,250 in sponsorship and, with more to be collected, the final total is expected to be over �1,500.
The money will be donated to the Commando Challenge Event’s chosen charities - Devon Air Ambulance and ‘C Group’ Royal Marines.
