Phil’s long trek home to honour dad (From Thisisdorset)

Phil’s long trek home to honour dad

7:00pm Tuesday 17th June 2008

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IT'S a long way from Afghanistan to Bournemouth.

Just ask Phil Druce, who along with nine other British military personnel stationed in Kabul, has pledged to cover the equivalent of the trip home - 5,029 miles or 8,094km - in a bid to raise £10,000 for charity.

Last month we reported that a large military aircraft had dropped off an unknown person at Hurn airport. The mystery passenger was Phil, who was flown all the way back from Afghanistan to attend his father's funeral.

In a bid to honour his father's life, Phil has recruited nine other brave Brits to complete the challenge before they return home to their loved ones on June 30.

The group, who are stationed at Kabul international airport, are collectively covering the distance by any means possible - rowing machine, treadmill, marching - they've even had an egg and spoon race!

And as if their challenge isn't gruelling enough, it all has to be done in stifling heat, 5,877 feet above sea level.

Phil's mother, Thea Druce, said: "It's such a wonderful thing they're doing. Phil was very close to his dad - he really wanted to create something positive out of something so sad. He's taking all that love and giving it back."

His sister, Claire Cullen, is also rooting for the tenacious team. "Phil says there's a wonderful feeling at the airport - it's brought everyone together and lifted their spirits. I have no doubt in my mind that they will succeed," she said.

The money raised will be split between three charities: Julia's House, a hospice for terminally ill children, Help for Heroes, who are building a rehabilitation pool for maimed soldiers, and to the children of Afghanistan who have been orphaned by the war.

If you are a Facebook user, you can show your support by visiting their page The Long Trek Home.

Alternatively, you can donate money through justgiving.com/thelongtrekhome.

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