Two submariners to cycle Tour de France in memory of Navy Captain and to raise money for mental health

Royal Navy officer Lieutenant Commander Darren Lunn and Warrant Officer Adam McCrohan visited Whale Island, Portsmouth, yesterday as they prepare to tackle the 2020 Tour de France route on August 29, aiming to cycle 3,484km in 23 days to raise money and awareness for military mental health.

The 2020 Tour de France was an epic race but, tragically, this was also the year that submariner, Captain Jim Simpson took his own life aged 44.

Since then, a charity has been set up in his honour as a separate fund under the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) umbrella.

HELP – Jim’s Story was created with the aim to educate, raise awareness and provide a deeper understanding of mental health and the factors that affect wellbeing.

It will also provide people with the practical skills and knowledge needed to spot the triggers and signs of mental health issues, giving people the confidence to step in and give support where it is needed.

The duo aims to tackle the Tour de France route, which includes climbs equivalent to 54 km of elevation, in the same time frame as the professionals to raise awareness and donations for HELP - Jim’s Story.

Tour De Submariner, Darren, said: ‘The news of Jim's death sent shock waves through the entire submarine community. Adam and I hope our challenge will raise awareness of mental health and encourage those in a similar position to seek assistance.’

The duo will be aided by a small support crew – Mark and Iain – and a minibus provided by the Royal Naval Association to transfer them between stages.

Adrian Bell, chief executive of RNRMC, added: ‘On behalf of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, we would like to wish Darren and Adam the very best of luck with this difficult challenge as well as acknowledging their endeavour and thanking everyone who has provided them with support and sponsorship.’

To support the submariner’s efforts visit justgiving.com/fundraising/tourdesubmariner or for more information on the charity go to help-jimsstory.com.