Royal Marines launch 'Brotherhood Ride' from Lympstone to tackle suicide stigma

This weekend, a 1,664-mile motorcycle ride began in Devon to raise suicide awareness among Royal Marines, starting at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) in Lympstone. 

Following a sharp rise in suicides within the Corps over the past two years, the "Brotherhood Ride" aims to encourage serving and former personnel to speak openly about mental health. 

Four former Royal Marines are riding to every unit in the UK as part of the RMA - The Royal Marines Charity's Lifting the Lid campaign. 

The journey is being led by TV adventurer, Aldo Kane, who served as a Royal Marine before embarking on a career in broadcasting. 

Kane is joined by fellow veteran, Paul White, who rides a custom Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 motorcycle, with support from AI Chambers and Billy Perham in a following vehicle. Together, the group represents 70 years of service in the Corps. 

Speaking at the launch in Lympstone on Sunday 14 September, Kane said: "Too many Royal Marines are suffering in silence, and we want to get the message out loud and clear that no one needs to suffer in silence - there is help out there.

"No one should be too proud to speak up and ask for help. Asking for help isn't weak - it could be the strongest thing you ever do." 

The route will take in every Royal Marines unit before finishing at the Tower of London on Saturday, 20 September. At each stop, the team will hand over wellbeing packs and a plaque to unit commanders. 

The number of miles on the rise (1,664) symbolises the founding year of the Royal Marines. Organisers hope the journey will raise £80,000 including funds from the re-auction of the "Bootneck II" motorcycle, first donated by veteran Mark Talbot. 

The motorcycle, carrying plaques and a helmet signed by commanding officers, will return to the Guildhall in London in November to be auctioned at the charity's annual fundraising dinner. 

Kane added: "The ride is about breaking down stigma, speaking openly and 'lifting the lid' on mental health. 

"It's about honouring those we've lost and standing beside those still fighting - physically or mentally - long after they've left the front line. 

"By the time it gets back to the Guildhall, it won't just be a bike, it will carry stories, the strength and spirit of the Royal Marine Commandos."