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22 May 2009 14:59:45
Representatives from the University of Bedfordshire will be commemorating an epic historical event next month (June) by taking part in a 65 mile run from Devon, England to Normandy, France over a 24 hour period.
“Project 65” has been set up to honour, particularly, those veterans who took part in operation Coup de Main; the capture of the bridges over Caen Canal and River Orne, at the start of the D-Day landings 65 years ago.
Robert Anderson, Paul Cavendish and Adrian Randall from the University will be amongst 200 runners, setting off from Tarrant Rushton Airfield in Dorset, to run the 62 miles to Portsmouth harbour. They will catch the ferry to France and then run the final three miles, timed to arrive 00.16 hours prompt – the exact time and date that the first combat operation of D-Day commenced, 65 years ago – at modern-day-named Pegasus Bridge for the main ceremony on 6 June.
Robert said: “It’s an absolute honour to be able to take part. I know it will be very thought provoking.”
Paul added: “There is a wide range in the age of participants all from very different backgrounds coming together to commemorate this incredible event. And the run itself will be an extreme test of endurance. ”
As well as honouring the men who took part in the Coup de Main, Project 65 aims to raise money for the disabled and wounded men and women both past and present of the Armed Forces. Funds raised will be divided amongst the British Legion, BLESMA, St Dunstan's, RAF Benevolent Fund, Army Benevolent Fund and Help for Heroes.
Each member of the running team must raise a total of £1000 which they are hoping to achieve before the event. Anyone interested in either supporting or sponsoring Rob, Paul or Adrian can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/robertandersonuob, www.justgiving.com/adrianrandall, www.justgiving.com/pauljcavendish. For further details on the event www.project65.net.
