Officer cadets have been running round the grounds of BRNC to raise money a month after the Royal Navy marked 20 years of removing the ban on LGBT+ people serving in the armed forces..

A group of 36 officer cadets took part in the charity run in aid of Stonewall on Wednesday, February 5, which generated over £1,000.

Runners covered seven kilometres each on the route round the main roadway, equating to 252km altogether.

John Hawke was the officer cadet who organised the charity run, having joined BRNC last September.

He is the charity representative for his division, and said: “I organised this run not only to raise money for Stonewall, but also to demonstrate to the public how committed the Royal Navy is to the principles of diversity and inclusion.

“I was very happy to see so many office cadets take time out of their busy schedules to raise money and show their support, and I am pleased to say that we have raised almost £1,050 so far.

“I am also very grateful for the Britannia Association, which provided refreshments and goody bags for the runners.”

BRNC flew the rainbow flag from the main mast, joining other naval bases and royal marine units across the country.

Commanding officer captain Roger Readwin said: “In today’s naval service, people are at the heart of capability and are the most important factor in delivering operational effectiveness.

“We value the individual skills and abilities that come with a diverse workforce and give our people the same opportunities regardless of sex, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender.

“I was delighted to be asked to start this charity event and congratulate all those who took part.”

For information about the charity, Stonewall, visit:www.stonewall.org.uk> stonewall