A group of Navy sailors, including Emma Whitty from Portsmouth, ran the Bahrain half marathon in the searing heat this January for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-Service men and women.

The 20 sailors from HMS Ramsey decided to raise money for Blind Veterans UK because one member of the ship’s crew feels passionate about the military charity as they support his uncle. Ultimately they smashed their target and have so far raised more than £2,500 pounds for the charity.

Emma Whitty, 24 and from Portsmouth, has her own personal reason to run the Bahrain half marathon for Blind Veterans UK. Her father served in the Royal Navy for 27 years and last year had two serious operations on his eyes.

She says: “At the time I wasn’t aware of Blind Veterans UK but it’s great to know the charity would be there for him if his eyesight deteriorates. Any help if the worst should happen would be a blessing. I’m happy to be helping a just cause.”

Emma completed the Bahrain half marathon in 2 hours and 38 minutes with temperatures approaching 30°C.

She says: “It was a challenge and something I’ve never done before and probably will never get the opportunity to do again.

“Though the conditions were difficult to run in I am proud of myself for the time I completed it in. Especially with little training due to the busy work schedule.”

On raising more than £2500 pounds Emma says: “The total amount still seems to be growing every day and I am incredibly thankful for everyone’s generosity.”

To support Emma and the rest of HMS Ramsey crew, please visit www.justgiving.com/BahrainHalfMarathon