Stephen Boyes took part in the Forces March – five marathons in five days challenge raising money for the Veterans’ Charity, writes Judy Davey.

It started very cold on the Wednesday morning (May 22), so no sun screen was applied!

However, although the wind was cold on the back, it got burnt.

The first leg was Ilfracombe to Exford, a length of 27.1 mile saw him complete it in 4:26.

Runners found a great hill out of Combe Martin and an even better camp site; the 25th best in the country.

Next day was Exford to Crowcombe and 26.1 miles.

One of the support team physio commented that Steve looked ‘rapid’ – he’s never been called that before!

He finished in three hours 57, so perhaps she was right as there wasn’t much flat on that route.

The weather was exceptionally cold for the time of year.

The third part was extra long compared to last year because participants ran into Langport to avoid traffic.

This made it five hours 39 and the distance 32.8 miles! Somerton in Somerset was the camping ground.

The fourth leg was Somerton to Maiden Bradley. A short route of 24.1 miles but a great deal of it up hill.

Steve finished in four hours two minutes. A music festival in the village helped take the pain away. The Final leg was Maiden Bradley to Bulford Camp; a distance of 26 .4 miles.

His time was four hours 15 making a total distance of 137.6 miles in five days! He will be there again next year for the fifth Forces March. A great holiday!