Llanrwst man's marathon effort in memory of marine

Oct 22 2009

Harry Roberts

THE best friend of a Welsh Royal Marine killed in Afghanistan earlier this year, is to take part in the Snowdon Marathon at the weekend in his memory.

Lance Corporal Martin ‘Rambo’ Richards from Penmachno, died from his injuries after a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan in May. News of his tragic death shocked his family and friends across the Conwy Valley with tributes from far and wide being paid to the Marine.

One of his closest friends, Harry Roberts from Llanrwst is now taking on the mammoth challenge of competing in the Snowdon Marathon this Saturday in memory of his friend and to help raise money for the armed forces charity Help for Heroes.

"I met Rambo through the football club in Penmachno and we just hit it off instantly," said Harry, 22.

"Even though I was younger than him we became firm friends, partners in crime you could say!

"He was the life and soul of every night out. Even when he joined the Marines and I went off to university in Liverpool he would always visit me when he was on leave.

"Not a day goes by when I don't think of the happy times Rambo and I shared, whenever I think of him I smile. He should inspire us all to live life to the full and I fully intend to try my hardest to make him proud. From the first time I met Rambo, I looked up to him with so much admiration and from day one he taught me so much about life.

"I was able to travel to the armed forces Selly Oak hospital to see Martin just before he passed away. That is why I have chosen to raise money for Help for Heroes as its a charity close to Rambo’s heart"

The Snowdonia Marathon, now in its 27th year, is a demanding and spectacular race, encircling Snowdon, Wales’ and England’s highest peak. Harry says he is looking forward to the marathon as he enjoys sports and is training to become a fitness trainer, although he thinks his friend would have something to say about it!

"He would be supportive of me but he would of said was that it’s nothing compared to passing out as a Royal Marine Commando," added Harry.

I just hope I do him proud and his family who are all supporting me and will be wearing special T-shirts on the day of the race with martin’s photo on them. I’m hoping to raise over £2,000.

To sponsor Harry log on to the website www.justgiving.com/Harry-Roberts