On ArmedForcesDay last Saturday, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity’s 13 Bridges Challenge in London saw a record attendance.

More than 1,000 people participated in this year’s 13 Bridges Challenge, smashing last year’s number by more than 350 and raising more than £125,000 pounds for SSAFA.

The first walkers set off from Trinity Square Gardens at 8am on Saturday, and over the next several hours they all snaked their way through Central London and across the city’s most iconic bridges. The 10-mile route took most participants around four hours to complete, offering stunning views of the UK capital.

One participant was Miah West, 18, from Gravesend, Kent. Speaking with her after completing the challenge, she was in good spirits: "My knees have gone and I probably should have worn my splints, but it was a great day and I loved getting to see the sights in London. I look forward to doing it again next year.

The weather on Saturday was a pleasant 23 degrees, with light breezes and sunny skies. The finish line was located in Eel Brook Common in Fulham, a festive atmosphere with ice cream, beer, snacks, and SSAFA merchandise.

Stationed at the finish line, as well as checkpoints throughout the course, were 67 Event Marshals, including Reservists, cadets, and SSAFA volunteers.

Verity Harding, SSAFA’s Head of Events, says: "We are so grateful for everyone who supported SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity by taking part in the 13 Bridges Challenge. With over 1000 registrants for the event, this year was our biggest ever and so far has raised over £125,000 to support our Armed Forces community.

Thank you so much to everyone who took part, volunteered on the day or sponsored others. It is thanks to you that the event is so successful. We hope to see you at the start line in 2025.

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