"He taught me that anything is possible"

A teenager is fundraising in memory of former Lance Corporal David Timmins, who inspired her to follow her dream when the pair met during a Camps International project in 2019.

Amy Dunton, 17, from Middlesbrough, met David in Borneo when they were both volunteering with Camps International.

David, along with fellow Blesma Member Ben Ayres, was mentoring teenagers during the month-long expedition.

“David and Ben spoke to many students about their lives, careers in the Forces, Blesma and lots more, and were a true inspiration to me,” said Amy, who is joining the Royal Air Force in July.

“I had always wanted to join the military but had never had that much confidence in myself. Hearing and witnessing how David just carried on with life even though he had sustained serious injuries really inspired me to pursue my dream. He taught me anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”

When Amy heard of David’s passing in January, she decided to raise funds for a memorial plaque to be put in Camp Bongkud where the project was based.

“During the Borneo trip, David set himself the challenge of climbing Bongkud Hill eight times. That was the equivalent of 4,216 metres, so one of my plans is to climb a local hill where I live 13 times to match that,” said Amy.

“Another idea I’ve had is to run the distance of a half marathon. I’m hoping to raise £2,000 to pay for the plaque.”