8k raised in memory of local marine

OVER 350 people turned out in the rain last month for a fundraising run in memory of a Thurgoland Royal Marine, raising nearly £8,000.

Relatives and friends of 23-year-old David Marsh, who was tragically killed in Afghanistan in March, took part in the ‘Billy the Kid Dash’ – a 3.5 mile run, walk or crawl around the Thurgoland block, which David himself used to do on a regular basis.

David’s sister Katy and wife Claire planted a tree in his memory and held a minute’s silence before the dash began at 10.30am, starting from The Bridge Inn, Thurgoland.

Adam Oldham, David’s friend, and Katy kindly updated Look Local on the Billy the Kid Dash – jokingly named in reference to one of David’s tattoos – and what they hope to do next.

Katy, 22, told Look Local: “The dash went really well, despite the weather, and we had an amazing turnout – Dave would have loved it.

“We organised the entire event in three weeks and thankfully it went without a hitch. We’d like to thank everyone who helped to organise the dash, including Dave’s cousin Dan Marsh and friends Ailsa Amos and Hayley Dixon. Also, a big thank you to everyone who took part, supported us or donated money.”

Adam, 23, added: “The course itself was quite demanding but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We’re hoping to make it an annual event and we are currently setting up a website in Dave’s memory.”

David, of the 40 Commando unit, was on active duty with another Marine in the Kajaki vicinity of Helmand Province when their vehicle was caught in an explosion.

The two were given medical treatment at the scene before being evacuated to the field hospital at Camp Bastion, but died from their wounds, despite the best efforts of the medical team.

David was born in Sheffield but had recently moved to Taunton in Somerset with his wife Claire and their daughter Molly. As well as sister Katy, he was survived by his parents Gary and Maxine.

Tributes to David from relatives, friends and colleagues praised the ‘dependability’, ‘comradeship’ and ‘zest for life’ of the young man who died protecting his country.

If anyone wishes to make a donation, please visit http://www.justgiving.com/billythekid. All funds raised will go to the Royal Marine Benevolent Fund, which helps relieve need, distress or hardship of those who have served or are currently serving, and their next of kin.