Field Gun Pull Commences 01 September 2025
September 2025 will see the return of the Military vs Cancer Field Gun Pull. The 1 ton Boer War Field Gun will be pulled from John O’Groats to Lands End and will involve over 1000 military personnel from across all 3 services.
In 1899, HMS TERRIBLE steamed to South Africa during the Second Boer War where she supplied some of her 6-inch and 12-pounder guns for land use. Captain Percy Scott designed mountings to make the guns mobile and they were transported overland to relieve the beleaguered British holed up at the Siege of Ladysmith. Ladysmith settled down to prepare for a siege, which was to last almost four months, with the remaining Gloucesters of 1st Battalion forming part of the defending force.
As we progress through our planning we will keep this page updated.
Should you wish to take part or support we would love to hear from you.
Key Updates:
- Cycle Route Planning: We’ve made great strides in identifying safe cycle routes to ensure the safety of the team during the challenge. We’re working closely with experts to finalise the best path from start to finish.
- Potential Partnership with STRAVA: We’re in discussions with STRAVA to integrate their platform into our journey, which will help us track progress, promote the challenge, and engage supporters in real-time.
- Logistics: We have received three General Logistics Vehicles from BABCOCK, which will be essential in supporting the crew throughout the challenge.
- Safety Protocols: Ensuring everyone’s well-being is our top priority, and we’ll be putting together comprehensive safety protocols, including regular check-ins and support stations along the route.
- Support: Thanks to the incredible support we’ve received from BABCOCK, we’re on our way to ensuring this event is a huge success.
Next Steps:
- Sponsorship: We will be reaching out to civilian and military industry for support. If you have a contact or know a company that wish to be involved, then please let me know.
- Finalising Routes: We’ll be mapping out the final cycle routes soon. Once done, we will share these with you for feedback and input.
- Volunteer Roles: In the coming weeks, we’ll be reaching out to confirm roles for everyone during the challenge, so stay tuned. If you have a team that could cover a specific area then please let me know.
- Training and Preparation: As we get closer to the event, we’ll discuss any specific physical preparation or training required for those pulling the field gun.