Volunteers Pull 1-Ton Field Gun from John O’Groats to Land’s End to Support Military Cancer Charity

Over a thousand volunteers are taking part in a remarkable test of strength and endurance, pulling a 1-ton field gun the entire length of the country from John O’Groats to Land’s End.

A Challenge Like No Other

The extraordinary feat, coordinated by Military vs Cancer, aims to raise £150,000 to help alleviate the effects of cancer for military personnel past and present, as well as their families.

The challenge began on 1st September at John O’Groats, with a 20-strong team of military members, veterans, volunteers and celebrities hauling the 1,000 kg gun — the equivalent weight of a full-grown male giraffe — between 20 and 25 miles each day.

Participants are pushing through up to ten-hour days, burning more than 6,000 calories daily while enduring blisters, fatigue, traffic, unpredictable weather and sleepless nights.

With teams changing daily, more than 1,300 volunteers are expected to contribute to pulling the field gun across the 1,000-mile route.

Strength, Determination and Purpose

David Bathgate, 56, CEO of Military vs Cancer and the man behind the challenge, is completing the full distance himself.

He said: “Cancer affects so many within the Armed Forces community, whether serving, veterans, or their families.

“Military vs Cancer is dedicated to providing direct support to those who need it most, and this event is about showing what can be achieved when people come together with determination and purpose.”

The journey is expected to take 45 days in total, with the team aiming to reach Land’s End later this month.

David added: “This all wouldn’t be possible without the support of thousands of volunteers, companies and members of the public who are donating to the charity.”

Making a Real Difference

Funds raised will support nursing care, travel costs for treatment, home adaptations, respite breaks, special experiences for those with a terminal diagnosis, and peer group support.

“Every donation makes a difference,” David said.

Communities across the country have shown their support, with World’s Strongest Man Tom Stoltman joining the team in Alness to lend his encouragement.

“Nothing Prepares You for How Heavy That Gun Is”

Mark Barnes, a trustee of Military vs Cancer who served from 1988 to 1996 as a weapons engineer, is also taking part.

He said: “This is a cause very close to my heart. My daughter was diagnosed with cancer at 16, so I know first-hand how important it is to receive support from charities. With my own military background, and my son having served a submariner for nearly nine years, it means even more to me.”

Speaking about the physical challenge, Mark added: “What an incredible experience. Nothing prepares you for how heavy that gun is – it’s really tough to get moving, and you feel every bump and gradient the road offers up.

“It means so much to represent the military on this challenge and to personally be a small part of this epic achievement, which I’m sure will not only be remembered for the enormity of the challenge, but also for the money it raises to help military families around the UK deal with their battle with cancer.”

A Record-Breaking Effort?

Although not officially verified as a world record, organisers believe this is the first time a 1-ton field gun has been pulled the entire length of the country.

To support the challenge or donate, visit the official Crowdfunder page