Paul Slater

[p][u]Great North Run “Para-style”[/u] (80lbs)[/p][p][b]In memory of “Hank” Hood...[/b][/p][p]The speciality of the Parachute Regiment is tabbing. Due to arthritis, I can no longer run, so, for the last 2 of my 14 consecutive GNRs I have had to TAB (Tactical Advance To Battle) or speed march. This involves carrying heavy weight in a bergen (approx 40lbs) and a further 45lbs in the form of a replica 81mm mortar barrel. Tabbing was my speciality as a PTI in 2 Para, something I did almost daily as I took platoon after platoon or company, for their annual speed march test (10 miler with 35lb in Bergen plus kit, rifle etc.) over hideous hills and through mud filled valleys against the clock. As part of the PT Staff back then we also held the record for the 50 miler, completing the course over the south downs in 10 hours 45 mins. after parachuting in to the start. [/p][p]The replica mortar barrel I carry on my shoulders was manufactured by Harvey Fabrication, a company near my home who support my fundraising and who can pretty much make anything from metal. David Harvey (director) has been very generous with his time and companies resources, thanks Dave! I also have a 4m high carbon fibre pole attached to my bergen with a Union Jack flag at the top, and Support our Paras flag below. This provides maximum exposure for the charity and makes me easy to spot among the 56k runners. I am wearing current issue combat trousers and boots and a Support our Paras T-shirt. The money raised goes to the Regimental charity to support Paras past and present, who are in desperate need of help. This year, I am participating in memory of Hank Hood, who was a friend and colleague - together, we were instructors seconded to train the Belize defence force, whilst serving in Central America. My last memory of Hank was having a cool beer with him in Belize city during a well earned break. Hank was a legend in the Paras and was someone I respected and admired. [/p][p] Hank took his own life recently, along with two other former colleagues in the same year, and Support our Paras carry out vital work in helping to reduce these terrible statistics. [/p][p]Please give what you can - literally every penny counts. And please always select Gift Aid as this gives a huge boost to the overall total raised. Thank you, Paul[/p]