A 94-year-old RAF veteran has completed a 12km bike ride to raise funds for a campaign to provide a token of appreciation to service personnel from the Second World War.

Bernard “Bunny” Ennis, a former rear gunner, took part in the challenge on his exercise bike for the Forgot You Not campaign by The Not Forgotten charity to find and thank the country’s veterans.

A spokeswoman for the cause said: “The charity intends to send a Forgot You Not gift box to 5,000 veterans to thank them for their service, lift lockdown spirits, remind them their service remains valued and let them know they are not forgotten.”

The box will feature specially produced commemorative items including edible treats and gifts to entertain and amuse, including a memento featuring their forces sweetheart.

Mr Ennis, from near Beaulieu in the New Forest, Hampshire, who raised £3,600, said: “2020 has been difficult for many, especially those shielding from Covid-19, and I wanted to help provide some support where I could.

“The Not Forgotten have done so much for me, and for others, so to help raise funds and awareness is a dream come true.

“I will continue to raise more money for as long as I can in memory of all the lost servicemen and personnel, including two of my brothers.”

Brigadier James Stopford, the charity’s chief executive, said: “While a sense of normality is returning for many, the harsh realities of the pandemic still exist for our veterans, who missed out on their 75th VE and VJ Day commemorations due to Covid-19.

“We want to bring a bit of cheer and to thank them for all they gave and it is also an appropriate way to acknowledge 100 years of support by The Not Forgotten to those who have suffered and served their nation.”

Any veteran of the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force and Merchant Navy who served during the war and lives in the UK is eligible to receive a gift box.

Details can be submitted online at thenotforgotten.org/how-we-help/forgot-you-not/ or sent to info@thenotforgotten.org.