Students aid Sergeant's marathon fundraiser (From Western Telegraph)

Students aid Sergeant's marathon fundraiser

A local Army recruiter will be relying on his background and drawing on all his fitness training when he takes on the challenge of the London Marathon on April 14th.

Sergeant Tim Phillips, who is based at the Army Careers information office in Haverfordwest, will be raising money for the Welsh Air Ambulance Appeal and is hoping his fundraising efforts will exceed £1,000.

This week, Tims training programme received an added boost when he was put through his paces by students on the Pembrokeshire Army preparation course (APC).

The APC is a pioneering programme, striking a balance between academic, personal and physical development. During the course, students undergo 12 weeks of intensive activity and are tutored in aspects of first aid, life-saving, team-building, interview techniques and health and sports development.

Sergeant Phillips joined the youngsters at the Race course in Haverfordwest as they enjoyed a day of sporting activities, organised by qualified instructors.

The morning session involved an hours circuit training, followed by a three-mile run. After a well-deserved lunch-break, the group made its way to the local leisure centre for an afternoon of watersports.

Speaking about his day with the APC, Sergeant Phillips said it was an enjoyable way to give an added boost to his training programme. I joined the Army 16 years ago when initiatives such as the Army Preparation Course didnt exist, he said.

There are now six running throughout Wales and I think its a great way for youngsters to get a real insight into Army life, while picking up transferable skills which will aid them in any future job search should they choose not to enlist at the end of the course. I had a great day with the APC students - they really put me through my paces and Im sure itll make all the difference to my marathon performance!