Fundraisers tackle Whitley Bay assault course for Sunderland veterans' home
Written by Emma Ford on 20th February 2014
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Adventurous fundraisers are being encouraged to sign up for a beach challenge to help support a new centre in Sunderland for North East veterans.
On March 29, Whitley Bay Promenade and beach will be transformed into a 10km physical and mental assault course, as a number of fundraisers tackle it for good causes.
The event is open to anyone wanting to raise funds for a charity of their choice, but people who take part are being encouraged to sign up and support a new veterans' centre being built at Elms West by the Fabrick group, with the Adderstone Foundation and Norcare.
A target of £200,000 has been set to help complete the project which aims to help those leaving the services cope with their return to civilian life. This is because many veterans face problems ranging from money issues to a breakdown in family relationships.
Ian Baggett of the Adderstone Foundation said: "This centre will be a vital resource for the North East and it will provide a secure environment for ex-service personnel to receive the support and guidance they need to overcome their issues."
The assault course is being organised by Newcastle based Total Racing International, who specialise in putting together sporting challenge events.
Phil Gray of TRI said: "This is going to be an absolutely brilliant day out and it is suitable for people at all fitness levels. We really hope that people will come and try something different whilst helping a great cause at the same time."
Those who sign up will have to facing obstacles like "Tom, Dick and Harry", "Jacob's Ladder" and "Galleon" along with the more ominously names "Kill Zone".
Organisers insist that the course will be a fun day out for everyone as well as giving the opportunity to support a worthy cause.
The money raised through the event will be allocated directly to providing the new veterans' centre. There are also plans to hold more events later on in the year to help reach the target of £200,000.
Entry for the event is £49 and for anyone who is interested, they can sign up here.
Emma Ford