FORMER RAF SQUADRON LEADER AND DIVING SPECIALIST TAKES PART IN THE DAMBUSTERS CHARITY BIKE RIDE

Businessman Gareth Lock, a former RAF Squadron Leader, has taken part in the Dambusters 100-mile charity bike ride to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

Several 56 or 100-mile bike rides took place across the country last month to mark the 100th birthday of the last Dambuster, Sqn Ldr George ‘Johnny’ Johnson MBE DM with rides taking in landmarks that are significant to the 617 Squadron and to Johnny.

On the nights of 16th and 17th May 1943, the RAF’s 617 Squadron carried out an audacious bombing raid in the Ruhr valley – the heart of Germany’s war machine. They were disciplined, courageous and determined. 

Likewise, Gareth, who is also a diving safety expert and author who works with diving teams around the world, was disciplined and determined. He started his 106 mile bike ride from his home in Malmesbury then rode on to Gloucester, Stroud and Chepstow and back to Malmesbury. 

“Some of our team rode on Sunday at a more leisurely pace,” said Gareth. “They took 9 hours 5 minutes with 7 hours moving time. Whereas I managed to complete the route in 6 hours 48 minutes with 6 hours 22 minutes moving time! Much of that stop time was in Gloucester where the traffic was bad.”

With very little stopping time and an energetic pace, Gareth came 12th out of 48 finishers. His fundraising page had a target set for £100, but to date, he has managed to raise well over that amount with the total currently standing at £650.

He said: “The RAF Benevolent Fund is a cause that’s close to my heart. It has been there through thick and thin for the RAF for more than 100 years helping current and former members of the RAF and their families. 

“I was pleased to be able to contribute to this worthwhile charity and would like to thank everyone who supported me either by riding with me, helping behind the scenes or donating to the RAF Benevolent Fund.”

Gareth spent 26 years in the RAF and 14 years as an experienced diver. He recently published his first book ‘Under Pressure’ which has sold thousands of copies worldwide to members of the diving community. He now specialises in training divers, diving teams and diving instructors around the impact of human behaviours in diving and how those behaviours can save lives or make the difference between life and death.

For more information about Gareth Lock visit https://www.thehumandiver.com