Soldiers from Hohne-based 9th/12th Royal Lancers have raised thousands of euros for Help for
Heroes after enduring
a 30-hour ‘trek’ – covering the distance from Germany to
Afghanistan.

Organised by SSgt Paul Miles, around 70 soldiers took on the gruelling 5,810km trek in a bid to raise as much as possible for the deserving charity.

Brigade Commander Paul Nanson kicked off the challenge which took place outside Hohne’s NAAFI, each soldier taking it in turns to run, cycle, and row as intrigued shoppers watched on.

SSgt Miles had visited every gym in the garrison to obtain the equipment needed to ensure the soldiers had enough apparatus to complete their target.A map was provided to show the participants where in the world their hard efforts had taken them.

Starting in Germany they began to cycle before moving on to run the distance through Poland, the Ukraine and Russia, then the Capsian Sea where the rowing began, before a stretch through Turkmenistan ending with a final demanding run to the finishing line.

The fantastic team effort saw the soldiers raise a whopping €3,000 for Help for Heroes. SSgt Miles, who stood with colleagues outside the NAAFI urging everybody to dig deep, said: “It’s the first time 9/12th have done this kind of event. It’s a great way to show our support as rear party for Op Herrick 14 – and another great way for the soldiers to keep fit.”

Back to top

Over 120 military personnel from across Bergen-Hohne Garrison joined in a mass event showcasing the health benefits of Zumba – the latest exercise craze to hit BFG.

Organised by WO1 (SMI) Rick Lowe RAPTC on Friday September 2, the event saw the soldiers enjoy a new and exciting way to exercise with Jean Kirkwood and Kaye Champkins leading the way having put themselves through the painstaking process of becoming instructors.

Zumba is a Latino form of exercise to music. A lesson lasts approximately one-hour and involves lots of steps and arm movements to music.

The exercise routine also helps participants develop coordination skills.

With the support from the Brigade Commander it is anticipated that more of this form of exercise will be taking place throughout the garrison for dependants and soldiers alike. It is a fun and different type of training which can only develop interest in a healthy lifestyle.

WO1 Lowe would like to say a huge thank you to the garrison for supporting the event and in particular Jean and Kaye, who delivered a first rate session and who are currently holding classes across the brigade as a result of their fantastic demonstration.

Pop in to your local gym to find out more about lessons taking place in your area.

Back to top

The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards to this day continue to celebrate the Battle of Waterloo which saw the magnificent defeat over the Imperial French army under the command of Emperor Napoleon.

This year the SCOTS DG marked the occasion – aptly named Waterloo Day – at the Mother Ross Community Centre in Fallingbostel.

Over 400 soldiers and their families, along with members of other regiments gathered for the day of fun-packed entertainment.

Despite a wet start, the sun shined for most of the afternoon providing plenty of opportunity for all to enjoy the array of activities on offer.

Bouncy castles and face painters were certainly kept busy and for those among the crowd who felt a little more daring, the bucking bronco offered the chance to test their skills beyond any cowboy from the wild west.

Families who sought a little healthy competition took part in the family relay race with the SCOTS DG Rear Ops Group Squadron Sergeant Major and his family scooping first prize.

The day proved a huge success and was a testament to all those who had helped with the planning and preparation behind the scenes – and all those who had helped throughout the day, which in true style, was carried out with military precision.

Back to top