Paul Scott

Brief Update (Man-Flu: Enemy Action)

Hi all my amazing sponsors,

I hope you’re all well, fighting fit, and not under attack by microscopic enemy forces like I was.

This week’s update comes with minimal glory and zero heroics. I was steamrolled by the dreaded man-flu over the weekend — proper enemy action. On Friday night I was officially man down and very nearly shouted “MEDIC!” Back in the good old days of service, of course, that would’ve resulted in a couple of brufen being fired in my direction, a tactical eye roll from the real medic, and the immortal words: “Crack on.” No hot toddy. No sympathy. No weakness tolerated.

I’m not fully combat-effective yet, but I’m slowly returning to operational readiness — and I’ve somehow managed not to spread it through the ranks, which surely earns me a medal of some sort.

Due to this unexpected biological warfare, I’ve not managed to get out and smash more weighted speed walking this week. Believe me, I’m gagging to up the load to 15kg, but doctrine dictates I must first complete 10 miles with 10kg. No shortcuts. No blagging it. Standards are standards, even when I've been coughing like an old Land Rover.

The upside? I’m slightly ahead of schedule, so the plan is to get back on the ground this coming weekend and tick that task off like a well-executed movement order.

I am flabbergasted at your generosity, and am almost at double the target that was initially set automatically when I joined the organisation I'm raising funds for.

As always, please feel free to share this page with friends or colleagues. And if any of them fancies “buying me a coffee”, and helping raise funds for this amazing charity, it genuinely keeps morale up and the mission moving — every little bit helps keep the boots marching.

Thanks again for the continued support.

Onwards 💪

Update - 24th January

SITREP: Training continues for the "March in March" 10-miler in support of Combat Stress.

Early morning speed walk today, and for reasons unknown the 10kg in the bergen felt noticeably heavier than usual. Was my head fully in it? Hard to say.

But this is one of those moments where needs must. Skip the work now, and carrying 25kg over 10 miles on 29th March will hurt far more than expected. If anyone would like to "buy me a coffee" and support this amazing charity please feel free to donate, but please do not feel obliged to, this is all about awareness.

The shorter 5-mile burst this morning still managed to burn around 800 calories, so it’s clearly doing some good, even if my knees currently disagree.

If anyone reading this is struggling, please take it from me: do what I did.

Stand up, face it head-on, and reach out. There is a wealth of expertise and support out there, and while the first steps are always the hardest, they matter the most.

My treatment with Combat Stress hasn’t fully started yet, but progress is built on small steps.

Onwards 💪

Update - Sunday 16th January - 10kg test

Hi everyone, thanks for following my progress. I wanted to share a short update on the preparations for a personal challenge that means a great deal to me — both physically and mentally.

First and foremost, my sincere thanks go to Steve from The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment for the generous loan of the bergen I’ll be using throughout my training and on the challenge itself: the 10‑mile “March in March” on 29 March. Support like this makes a real difference, and I’m extremely grateful.

Building Towards the Challenge

On the day, I’ll be carrying 25kg over 10 miles. This journey isn’t just about putting one foot in front of the other — it’s about discipline, planning, consistency, and resilience.

I’ve already completed the full 10‑mile route with very little weight, carefully mapping it out, testing pace, and understanding the terrain. Now the real work begins: progressively adding weight and building the stamina — both physical and mental — needed to see this through safely and successfully.

This morning’s session was a shorter march with 10kg, focusing on pace and making sure the bergen fits correctly. Huge credit goes to my son Olly, who kept this 16‑stone body moving and my motivation high, despite the drizzle — or liquid sunshine, as we choose to call it.

The Training Plan Ahead

The roadmap to 29th March is clear:

• 5 miles with 10kg

• 10 miles with 10kg

• Increase to 15kg

• Then 20kg

• Finally, 25kg over 10 miles on the day

Each step is designed to prepare both body and mind for the demands of the challenge, all in support of the incredible charity Combat Stress.

Knee supports are already on order to help protect this 56‑year‑old frame (with a less‑than‑perfect BMI), but while joints may complain from time to time, the mindset remains strong — and the purpose even stronger.

More Than a Physical Test

This challenge is about far more than fitness.

It’s personal. It’s about mental health, about speaking out, and about showing that it’s never too late to push yourself — or to ask for help when you need it. I’ve spoken out, and I want others to know they are not alone.

If you’d like to support the cause, perhaps by buying me a coffee, please do so by donating here. 

Onwards. 💪

Update - Saturday 10th January - Benchmark Set

10 mile March in March - Sunday 29th March 2026

In 2026 I’ve decided to step deliberately outside my comfort zone — not for recognition, but for a cause that matters deeply.

Mental health affects every one of us at different points in our lives. For many veterans, the challenges didn’t end when service did — they simply changed form. Too often, those battles are fought quietly and alone. 

I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that I’m one of them, hence going public. Accepting that hasn’t been easy, but it’s a reality I can no longer avoid. Facing it head on is daunting, yet it’s the first step towards healing - and one I’m choosing to take.

That’s why I’m taking part in March in March, a 10-mile walk in support of Combat Stress, a charity that provides vital mental health support to former service personnel.

To make this more than just a walk, I’ll be completing it as a speed march carrying 25kg on my back (yep, your average holiday suitcase!) drawing on the Army Combat Fitness Test I undertook many times during my 24 years of service. While I turn 57 in February, I’ll be pushing myself to complete it non-stop and as fast as I can.

Years ago, these marches were nicknamed "Tabs" meaning Tactical Advance to Battle — purpose clear, destination fixed. This time, there’s no weapon and no enemy ahead. The purpose now is awareness, empathy, and support for those whose burdens don’t come off at the finish line.

Because some people carry far more than physical weight — they carry trauma, loss, and memories that linger long after service ends.

This is where your support can make a real difference.

If you’re able to donate, even a small amount, you’ll be helping fund life-changing support for veterans who need it most. If you’d like to join me for part — or all — of the march, that solidarity would mean a great deal. And if you can’t do either, sharing this post helps ensure the message reaches those who need it.

I’ll carry the weight on the day — but together, we can help carry the burden that lasts far longer.

As Rooster said to Maverick - Don't think, just do

The route is yet to be confirmed however will take place in the East Lancs area and more info will be published.

22nd Dec 25 - The planning commences now, training starts in the New Year