A FORMER Army staff sergeant from Church Crookham is taking on a 100-mile challenge in aid of ex-servicemen.

Steve Eley will be tackling the Prudential RideLondon - Surrey 100 this July for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-service men and women.

The ride starts in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, then follows a 100-mile route on closed roads through the capital and into Surrey’s stunning countryside. With gruelling climbs on a route made famous by the world’s best cyclists, it is described as a “truly spectacular event for all involved”. The participants will finish along The Mall in central London.

The 59 year old feels it is his duty to raise awareness for Blind Veterans UK after having served in the Army for 22 years. 

Steve said: “The Prudential RideLondon will be a challenge both physically and mentally. Considering what veterans go through when they lose their sight, either while serving or later in life, it’s a small price to pay to ensure they get the support they need.”

Steve joined the Army in 1982 after a period with the Territorial Army (TA).

He was in the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and served in Germany, Belize, Canada, Cyprus Northern Ireland and The Balkans. He left the Army after 22 years of service as a staff sergeant.  

Steve still works closely with the Army as a part of the defence contract system for Babcock International, where he helps provide training support and services to soldiers undergoing Phase 2 military training.

It’s because of his military background that Steve feels passionate about raising money for Blind Veterans UK, and taking on this leg-shredding challenge.

He said: “I have personally seen members of my own corp and the armed services affected by the loss of their vision and I know the good work this charity does for vision-impaired veterans and I am hoping to rise as much money and awareness for the charity as possible.”

Blind Veterans UK provides life beyond sight loss through free training, rehabilitation, equipment and emotional support to veterans no matter when they served or how they lost their sight.

The Crookham local is looking forward to the event even though he knows it will be a tough challenge.

He added: “It’s no walk in the park – there are some really testing parts on the course such as used in the 2012 London Olympics, Newlands Corner, Leith Hill and Box Hill.

“I’m excited to be cycling through traffic-free London which is something you don’t get to experience otherwise.”