Honouring D-Day: Abingdon cyclists complete epic 600-mile Dunkirk challenge for SSAFA

08 June 2026

A team of determined cyclists have returned to Abingdon after completing an extraordinary 600-mile-plus journey to Dunkirk and back in support of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

The Abingdon Extreme Fundraisers arrived back in Market Square on Sunday to a warm welcome from supporters, family, friends and SSAFA volunteers after six days of cycling through England and France. Along the route, the team visited significant historical sites including Sir Winston Churchill's grave, Dunkirk, Dieppe and Pegasus Bridge, honouring those who served during the Second World War and all those who continue to serve today.

Despite battling injuries, fatigue and the physical demands of covering more than 600 miles in less than a week, every rider showed remarkable determination to complete the challenge.

The fundraising effort has already raised more than £6,000 for SSAFA, with donations continuing to come in. The funds will help support serving personnel, veterans and their families across Oxfordshire through SSAFA's lifelong practical, emotional and financial support.

SSAFA Oxfordshire Branch Chair, Ian Talbot said: "We are incredibly grateful to the Abingdon Extreme Fundraisers for their commitment, resilience and support. Completing more than 600 miles for the Armed Forces community is a truly remarkable achievement. The funds they have raised will make a real difference to serving personnel, veterans and families who turn to SSAFA for help."

Throughout the challenge, the team received support from local businesses, community groups and members of the public, many of whom followed their progress and donated along the way.

Paul Blair, from the Abingdon Extreme Fundraisers, said: "This challenge pushed us to our limits both physically and mentally, but knowing we were raising money for SSAFA and supporting the Armed Forces community kept us going. Visiting places such as Dunkirk and Pegasus Bridge was incredibly moving, and crossing the finish line in Abingdon with friends and family cheering for us made all the hard work worthwhile."

While the challenge may be over, fundraising remains open, with donations continuing to support SSAFA's vital work within the Armed Forces community.

Anyone wishing to support the team's efforts can still donate via their JustGiving page.