RAF Association ambassador Amrik Sandhu has completed a personal walking challenge to walk over 340km in 13 days to raise funds for two special causes is his life.
As part of his challenge, Amrik visited each one of the 11 homes he lived in, starting in High Beech, Epping Forest on Sunday 24 May before finishing in Oldbury in the West Midlands on Friday 5 June.
Amrik said: “It has been a fabulous experience and I’ve met some wonderful people along the way. It was nice to meet so many friendly people who were willing to chat about their stories so it was a great experience.
“I’ve walked the length of the Grand Union Canal as part of the process. I’ve found it a lot easier on the legs that I thought but probably a lot tougher on the back. I’m not used to carrying a rucksack on my back for this length of time.”
Supported by his family members and many friends, Amrik’s walk was also dedicated to his son Ajvir, a trainee RAF pilot who passed away in an air crash 10 years ago.
Following his passing, the Ajvir Singh Sandhu Leadership Foundation was created in his memory. The foundation exists to inspire and support young people in developing leadership, resilience and a strong sense of purpose.
Amrik said: “Ajvir was an exceptionally talented person and when he passed away, we were astonished by how many of his friends said he had helped them get to where they were. He was an inspirational person and leader and we wanted to extend his legacy.
“The foundation helps people who might not have the same access and support but who have a burning ambition to achieve something, including being in the Royal Air Force.
“We offer mentoring and sponsorship opportunities so we can help people achieve their dreams and become leaders in their chosen fields as well.”
Amrik’s challenge has also been completed in support of the Royal Air Forces Association, a charity which has become extremely close to his heart since Ajvir’s tragic passing.
He said: “Ajvir spoke so fondly of the Royal Air Force and called it his second family. We wanted to maintain that connection after his passing and so I became an ambassador and a regular donor to the Association.
“Every time we fundraise, I always try and include the Association in my efforts. After Ajvir’s passing, we raised around £36,000 for the Association and this is a continuation of those efforts.
“We will always do everything we can to support the Association, to support those in the RAF community who need it and, at the same time, continue Ajvir’s legacy.”
If you’d like to make donation to Amrik’s fundraising page you can find it here.
