This September, Bolton businessman and lifelong cycling enthusiast Andrew Crompton will lead a team of 15 riders on a gruelling eight-day challenge covering more than 600 miles between RAF Lossiemouth in Moray, Scotland and RAF Wyton in Cambridgeshire.
The Riding on Air cycle challenge, taking place between 12-19 September 2025, will raise vital funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund and its flagship youth support programme, Airplay, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year.
With approximately 34,000 children in the RAF Family, research shows their greatest worries are deployment, frequent home moves, leaving friends behind, and disrupted education – challenges that can impact emotional wellbeing, often causing heightened anxiety and isolation. Airplay, established by the RAF Benevolent Fund in 2010 and delivered by One YMCA, provides children and young people aged five to 18 a safe, enjoyable space to learn and connect with peers across 24 RAF stations, providing vital continuity for families as they relocate.
The Riding on Air route will take the team through RAF stations including Lossiemouth, Leeming, Waddington and Wyton, with riders averaging between 60-90 miles per day in the saddle. At each stop, participants will have the opportunity to meet RAF personnel, Airplay youth workers and children from RAF families, gaining first-hand insight into the impact of the programme they are supporting.
Andrew, who has previously completed two major long-distance cycle rides – Manchester to Melbourne (15,000 km, raising £211,000) and Go Asia from Bangkok to Saigon (1,100 km, raising £170,000) – has set an ambitious fundraising target of £60,000 for the challenge.
Speaking about his motivation, Andrew said:
“We wanted to do something to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day and the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, not only to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were injured but to also recognise the sacrifices made by the families of the armed forces community.”
He continued:
“We were amazed by the incredible range of initiatives and activities delivered through Airplay, and by the dedication of its staff and volunteers. It is a truly inspiring programme that supports young people from RAF families, and we feel both proud and privileged to be undertaking this challenge on their behalf. Our goal is to raise as much money and awareness as possible to ensure this vital support continues.”
Rowena Finch, Senior Relationships Manager said:
“We are enormously grateful to Andrew and the Riding on Air team for their dedication and commitment to the Fund. Their efforts will help us continue providing the vital support Airplay offers to thousands of RAF children and young people across the UK.”
The RAF Benevolent Fund provides financial, emotional, and practical assistance to serving and retired RAF personnel and their families. This includes grants to help with financial difficulty, mental health support, Airplay youth clubs, and more.
Supporters can back the team by donating via JustGiving.
