Paramedic Jackie El Tawil is spearheading a unique challenge to drive carriage horses the 1,000 mile length of Britain.
Mrs El Tawil, who lives in Bromham, wants to raise £1 million for Help for Heroes and other charities that help injured service personnel.
Mrs El Tawil’s Molly and Rosie will be among 20 horses taking it in turns to pull a replica First World War ambulance from Land’s End to John O’ Groats in June.
There will be a number of drivers, all injured servicemen, plus Mrs El Tawil and a support crew of grooms, vets, and blacksmiths. The event is called Horses Help Heroes.
Mrs El Tawil, who is married with three sons, said: “What is unique about this event is that we will be carriage driving through the day and night. The horses are very fit and we aim to do 100 miles a day.”
As a paramedic Mrs El Tawil mentored members of the armed forces in front line first aid while they were training in Wiltshire.
She has been struck by the increasing number of wounded personnel needing help to recover from the physical and mental injuries inflicted by war.
She said: “Chatting to them I realised how ignorant I was and how many people are getting badly hurt. There are horrendous injuries that we don’t know about.”
The challenge has been praised by Prince William who wrote: “I salute all those involved with Horses Help Heroes for their tireless commitment, energy and originality in their drive toward this vision. I urge everyone to support them in whatever way they can.”
To donate, visit www.horseshelpheroes.org.uk
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