Ex-soldier takes on Rock Solid for charity

Steve French, an ex-serviceman from Exeter, will take on Exeter’s Rock Solid Race in March to raise money for Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a leading charity that helps bereaved British Forces children smile again.

Steve, 28, now a restaurant manager, was touring with the Army when Lee Scott, the inspiration behind the charity and father-of-two, was killed in Afghanistan after his vehicle hit an IED.

He will be running the obstacle event with partner Emily and the pair are hoping to raise up to £700 for the national children’s charity. It’s the second time Steve will be fundraising for the charity, after taking part in Scotty’s Little Soldiers’ record-breaking rugby match in 2013.

Steve said; “Having known Lee, Scotty’s Little Soldiers is a charity extremely close to my heart and the reason why I’m taking on this challenge. I’ve seen the great work the charity carries out and I know Lee would want me to do my bit.
“I’m hoping my efforts make a real difference for this excellent cause and we’re doing all we can to raise awareness.”
The Rock Solid Race is a muddy obstacle course over a five, ten or 15km distance that challenges both experienced athletes and first time runners. This year, Scotty’s is putting together a team of fundraisers to take part in the Exeter (19 March) and Milton Keynes (29 October) events and are hoping to raise a total of £30,000.

Nikki Scott, founder of Scotty’s Little Soldiers said; “It means so much to me and the charity that Steve and his partner have chosen to run the event and raise money for Scotty’s. I wish them both the very best of luck. 

“This year’s Rock Solid Race is our biggest fundraising challenge yet and we’re really keen for everyone to get involved and show their support for Scotty’s. I ran the race last year, it’s not only a great day out for everyone but most importantly raises money so we can carry on helping British Forces kids who have lost a parent.”

Steve French, in honour of Scotty’s Little Soldiers, will represent ‘Team Scotty’ and tackle Rock Solid Race on 19 March 2016.

Registration is just £35 and those who raise over £300 will receive a free Under Armour Tech T-shirt.

For more information on the charity visit http://www.scottyslittlesoldiers.co.uk or to sign-up to join ‘Team Scotty’ visit http://scottychallenges.co.uk/