PERSONNEL at RAF St Mawgan answered the call to help families in food crisis in Newquay.

An evening of bingo was organised at Atlantic Club in aid of Newquay Foodbank, which was attended by service personnel, civil servants, local supporters and representatives from the charity.

Donations from businesses across Cornwall, including a cream tea at the Headland Hotel, a family ticket to Lappa Valley, and a back and shoulder massage, helped make the night a memorable success.

The event marked the countdown to a demanding three‑day charity walk between March 17 and 19, during which a small team of RAF St Mawgan personnel will cover more than 20 miles a day across Cornwall.

The route will take them, on day one, from RAF St Mawgan via Newquay to Threemilestone. On day two they will travel on to Penryn, Redruth, Camborne and on day three they head back to Newquay before finally returning to RAF St Mawgan.

Their aim is to raise vital funds and awareness for Newquay Foodbank, whose work extends far beyond providing food parcels. The charity offers guidance, signposting and compassionate support to people across the region, including Cornwall’s significant veteran community.

Wing Commander Helen Simpson, RAF St Mawgan station commander, said: “Our people live and work in communities across Cornwall, and supporting Newquay Foodbank is one way we can stand alongside those who may need help. The bingo night showed just how much goodwill there is, and the March walk will continue that momentum. We are proud to play a part.”

Many RAF St Mawgan personnel live in towns and villages throughout Cornwall, and the station’s partnership with Newquay Foodbank reflects a shared commitment to supporting neighbours who may one day need help.

Warrant Officer Riddle, RAF St Mawgan community support officer said: “The use of foodbanks has and is rising dramatically, with people working full time also requiring support which highlights the cost-of-living crisis.

“Our RAF St Mawgan family is dispersed throughout the county, so our five-year plan is to cover the whole of Cornwall raising funds, dropping off donations on route but more importantly spreading awareness.

“With demand for foodbank services continuing to rise, every contribution counts. The bingo night brought the community together with purpose and set the tone for the challenge still to come in March.”