The most recent drop-in meeting of the Shildon Veterans Hub, on the third Wednesday in June, was well supported with some new faces popping in to see what it’s all about, writes Glenn Gibson. It was also great to see the regulars who come every month to support the venture. For those who sent their apologies, we all say, “get well soon” and hope to see you at the next one.
The tickets for the raffle prizes, donated by Nationwide Engineering, were drawn and the main hamper was won by an employee of the company (they did buy nearly half the tickets!) and the smaller hamper was won by the Mayor of Shildon, Shirley Quinn. The Veterans thanked the two representatives of Nationwide Engineering who attended and when the raffle money was counted, it amounted to a fantastic £145.
A spokesperson for the Veterans Hub said: “This money, alongside others donated to the Hub, will now enable us to organise and pay for a day out. The thing is – you choose where you want to go for the day. But here’s the catch: you will have to attend the next meeting in July (3rd Wednesday) to give us your input and book your space on the bus. It is hoped that the day out will be on Wednesday 16th August, so instead of meeting at the Civic Hall, we spend the day visiting one or two local sites of military interests. There are quite a few in our region, such as Hartlepool Historic Quay with the Heugh Battery Museum nearby on the headland, the Tommy statue at Seaham with the North East Sea, Air & Land Museum nearby in Washington, Eden Camp in Pickering and for those who would like a refreshment, the Veterans Bar & Museum in Thornaby. So come along and get involved.
Once again, the Hub is being recognised by organisations who wish to support those in need of help and assistance. The June meeting was visited by Healthwatch County Durham who listen, advise and speak up for people to get the best health and social care for themselves and their family. It is hoped that at our July meeting, the Armed Forces Outreach worker from Durham County Council will be attending to talk to the group and hopefully help them with any issues. It’s great to see that there is so much interest from organisations willing to engage and help those who have served or are still serving.
Now that Shildon Veterans Hub is starting to get established, there was talk about raising funds and taking on projects within the community. Again, this would be an ideal opportunity to receive ideas from those attending. Some have already been mentioned, such as an Armed Forces Day event in 2024, Veterans memorial fence panel next to the plinth and flag near the arch, or covering the cost of bringing a full-size replica spitfire, if available, to the family Fun4all event in 2024.
At the June drop-in, it was the ideal opportunity for Veterans to show their continued support for Armed Forces Day by taking part in the Salute our Forces by tweeting @ArmedForcesDay using #SaluteOurForces. Continued thanks to Shildon Town Council, Shildon Alive, the Mayor of Shildon, Cllr Shirley Quinn and other local councillors for their ongoing support towards the Veterans Hub.
Don’t forget the next drop-in is on Wednesday 19th July, from 11am until 2pm at the Civic Hall, Shildon. All are welcome to come and have a say on how to run, organise and proceed this fantastic group. Refreshments available.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
