Candidates from URNU Solent have raised over £1200 for VOS, their partnered Military charity, by completing a gruelling 24-hour running event aptly titled the Longest Day.
The Longest Day charity run
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the heroic D-Day landings, URNU Solent undertook an epic 24-hour running event in Portsmouth. The starting pistol was fired at 12:00 hrs on Saturday 1 June, with the last runners crossing the line at midday the following day.
This mammoth relay race was created to raise much-needed funds for VOS and involved students and staff completing a ~5.00km loop in teams. As one group crossed the finish line, the next would set off, repeating the cycle until 24 hours had elapsed.
While the challenge was a tough one, morale remained high throughout and the camaraderie on show was second to none. And with over £1200 raised, we’d say everyone absolutely smashed it!
Proudly supporting our Veterans
As well as fundraising for VOS, the Longest Day proudly reinforced the memory of the brave Armed Forces personnel who risked all in fighting for our freedom during World War 2.
The initiative has also driven awareness of those who serve the UK today, and is a strong marker of support for local veterans through the work that VOS does.
Any donations or support given to support the event will still be much appreciated – you can visit the URNU’s Justgiving page here.
About the URNU
The University Royal Naval Unit (URNU) was formed in 2021 and is based in HMS King Alfred within HMNB Portsmouth. URNU Solent supports students based in Portsmouth, Sussex, Southampton and Winchester.
It gives students of all ages a chance to experience military life during their university years. With units UK-wide, it’s a great place to challenge yourself, develop unique skills and build lifelong relationships while also getting paid.
The URNU offers internationally recognised military and leadership training alongside numerous sporting and adventurous training activities – all designed to fit around academic commitments. Follow the URNU on Facebook and find out more about them on their official website.
VOS is here to support veterans from the UK Armed Forces service, the Merchant Navy, and their partners. If you know a veteran (from any time of service) located in Portsmouth, the Isle of Wight, Gosport, Fareham or the Solent area, please pass our details along.
If you’re a veteran or partner and are thinking about getting in touch, we would love to hear from you. Call us on 02392 731 767, visit one of our drop-ins, or email admin@vosuk.org.
Please note that VOS is not a crisis service. If you need immediate support, please contact one of the following:
- Your GP or NHS 111
- Attend A&E or call 999 for medical emergencies
- The Samaritans on 116 123 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
- A trusted family member or friend
