Gurkhas Complete Charity Doko Race For NHS

Gurkhas serving with the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps have taken on a special challenge in aid of the NHS.

The soldiers took part in a unique version of a doko race at Imjin Barracks in Gloucestershire by virtually climbing the height of the world's three tallest peaks.

The doko is a traditional wicker-type basket found in Nepal and nearby territories.

It also plays a part in the selection process for the recruitment of new Gurkhas.

The basket - which weighed 25 kilogrammes - was strapped to the heads of the personnel who in total covered 26 kilometres. 

Sergeant Sushil Chamlin, who organised the event, said: "My wife is a nurse, she works in a Gloucester hospital during this pandemic situation.

"She is working so tirelessly to cope with this unprecedented health epidemic."

During the Gurkha recruit selection process, applicants are required to carry a 25 kilogramme doko for 6 kilometres within 50 minutes.

Second Lieutenant Rory Dock said: "The doko was introduced in 1989 to the British Army and the idea being to bring in something that's traditional to Nepalese life into Army selection."