Kirkby Lonsdale man to attempt gruelling Guinness World Record

Yahoo

15 hours ago

A Kirkby Lonsdale man is attempting to break a Guinness World Record.
Greg Dunnings, a former soldier, will undertake the gruelling challenge on Saturday, August 30, at Carlisle Lake District Airport.
The 34-year-old will attempt to pull a van for the greatest distance in 24 hours, aiming to beat the current record of 32 miles.
He is raising funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, The Coldstream Guards charity and The Fire Fighters charity.
Mr Dunnings will attempt to pull a van for the greatest distance in 24 hours (Image: Supplied)
Mr Dunnings served in the Coldstream Guards for five and a half years before being medically discharged due to injuries sustained in an IED blast during Operation Herrick 11.
These injuries caused damage to his lower leg and left him with a knee held together with screws.
Since leaving the military, Mr Dunnings has been with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service for over seven years, currently serving at Preston Fire Station.
Mr Dunnings said: "My grandad served in the Grenadier Guards, and my older brother Zak was in 3 Para — so giving back to the Armed Forces community means everything to me.
"SSAFA was there for me when I needed help, and I want to make sure they can be there for the next person too."
Pulling a van continuously around a 1km loop is a childhood dream for Mr Dunnings.
He said: "I've always wanted a Guinness World Record.
"My grandparents bought me the book every Christmas.
"But I wanted to do something worthwhile — not just sit in a bath of beans.
"After ultra-marathons, carrying a rowing machine around the Yorkshire Dales' Three Peaks, and winning Gold at the Invictus Games, I've learned that I'm good at suffering — and this record is all about suffering."
Mr Dunnings has faced several training setbacks and persistent injuries recently but is determined to see the challenge through.
He said: "I ran the Manchester Marathon in April and have been training by dragging a massive tyre around my local rugby club.
"Training's not been ideal due to a few niggles, but I'm used to pushing through.
"This is about raising money for three brilliant charities — SSAFA, The Coldstream Guards Charity and The Fire Fighters Charity — and showing what's possible when you don't give up."
Mr Dunnings has already raised £1,000 for each charity but aims to raise even more through his extraordinary effort.
He encourages people to come and show their support throughout the challenge.
Those who wish to donate can do so via the JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/team/gregdunnings.