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A decorated army veteran from Malvern is being hailed as a “true inspiration” after raising more than £150,000 to support fellow veterans through the annual Malvern Hills Challenge.
Gordon Waddell, 68, who served for 34 years with the Royal Artillery and saw action in the Falklands, the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan, has spent the past nine years helping former servicemen and women facing physical and mental health challenges.
As Chair of the Malvern Hills Challenge committee, Gordon has played a pivotal role in growing the event into a major fundraiser for Help for Heroes. Now, after nearly a decade of service to the cause, he is stepping down to make way for a new generation of volunteers.
Originally from Glasgow, Gordon joined the army at 21 and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2012. Reflecting on his journey, he said: “I’ve seen many brave men and women affected by injuries and illness through their service. I’ve always considered myself one of the lucky ones, and I knew I wanted to give something back.
“A friend introduced me to the Malvern Hills Challenge committee, and I’ve never looked back. It’s become a full-time passion – bringing together civilians, serving personnel and veterans to support a cause that truly matters.”
This year’s event, held on Saturday 13 September, drew over 300 participants from across the UK. Among them was Barrie Griffiths, one of our Ambassadors and an RAF veteran who has received support for chronic pain and mental health challenges after a spinal injury. “Gordon’s leadership and commitment have been nothing short of inspirational,” said Barrie. “His work has made a real difference to veterans like me. The Charity simply couldn’t do what we do without people like him.”