Members of the Veterans Hub and Shildon Branch RBL enjoyed a day out to Eden Camp, Malton on Saturday 10 May, reports Glenn Gibson.
The weather was fantastic and some members brought their children to sample the delights of this informative and educational museum.
The day started early, with a planned 8.00am set but was slightly delayed when the minibus went to the wrong location.
Once on our way the roads were clear and we arrived just before the museum opened at 10.00am.
With the help of the Shildon branch RBL chairman Andy and the kind generosity of the Eden Camp staff, we secured a combined veteran and group discount.
Once inside, a group photo was taken and then everyone “bomb burst” to do their own thing.
Every hut, shed and display were visited and in the end, everyone just seemed to merge back together and agreed that it was about time to head home.
Arriving back at the Railway Institute around 4.30pm, it was great to see the group all go for a final drink and chat inside the lounge in the Institute before wearily heading home.
Many thanks must be given to Rob Yorke and his company Teescraft Engineering for sponsoring and supporting the day out, to Carly for organising the minibus and to Nick the driver for getting us there and back.
It is appreciated that Teescraft Engineering put time and effort in to supporting local veterans, and we would like to see more businesses become involved.
Planning has already started to organise another day out closer to home, to some of the lesser-known military museums around the area.
April’s attendance of the Veterans Hub was again low, maybe because it was Easter time, because of the weather or perhaps just general interest is falling.
For the hub to continue, we need veterans and their families to attend.
The Resthouse is in a beautiful location overlooking the park with fantastic views.
There is space for children to play and dogs to walk, which makes this an ideal spot to sit and relax, enjoy a chat and a cuppa.
Shildon Town Council will continue to provide the Veterans Hub, as it is hoped in the near future, with the appointment of a new Community and Engagement worker, they will help build this up and support veterans in need.
The Veteran’s Hub has been offered a small microgrant but it has been put on hold for the time being until issues can be sorted.
It is still hoped that the book club side and fundraising can still progress if people attend, as this is a great opportunity to put something back into the community.
There are a lot of things happening for Veterans in Shildon, with the Shildon Branch–Royal British Legion meeting on 2nd Tuesday of the month from 7.00pm in the Railway Institute and the Masonic Veterans breakfast club.
It is also pleasing to hear that the Veterans on the town are working on a theme to take part in the Shildon – Mini Street Cavalcade happening on the 2 August but I must remind everyone that registration needs to be completed before 31 May to be able to be a part of it.
Forms can be downloaded from the Town Council and Railway Institute websites.
Continued thanks as always to Shildon Town Council, Shildon Alive and Health Express – and to those veterans who attend and enjoy the craic.
The next meeting will be held on June 19, in the Resthouse, Hackworth Park, 11.00am – 2.00pm
If anyone wants any information about the Veterans Hub, please call the Council Offices 01388 772563.
Glenn Gibson
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
