A special trophy to recognise groups or people that contribute to Lancashire’s armed forces community has been presented to an East Lancashire charity.
The Tom Davies Trophy was awarded to Haslingden-Based Veterans in Communities (VIC) at County Hall, Preston this week as part of the county council’s build up to Armed Forces Day, which takes place on Saturday 29 June.
Vic provides a range of activities for people who have served in the armed forces, or emergency services across Rossendale, Burnley, Pendle, Ribble Valley, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale.
Activities support people who are having difficulties returning to civilian life after serving in the forces. They are led by veterans or retired members of the emergency services and include everything from training opportunities and walking, to horticulture and singing groups.
The annual award was presented at a special event at County Hall, which brought together representatives from the county council, local organisations, military organisations and others.
The trophy was presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth KG KCVO, accompanied by the Chairman of Lancashire County Council.
County Councillor Paul Rigby, Chairman of Lancashire County Council, said: “I’m honoured to present the Tom Davies Trophy to Veterans in Communities.
“By offering a range of activities to support veterans, this group makes a tremendous contribution to the lives of people who have served and their families.
“Returning to civilian life after serving your country can be difficult and it’s crucial that we recognise the work of groups like this who make an outstanding contribution to our county.
“Congratulations to Veterans in Communities for its invaluable work.”
County Councillor Alf Clempson, champion for armed forces and veterans, said: “We are very proud of our nation’s armed forces.
“Lancashire provides a good number of recruits and is also home to a significant military presence, as well as thousands of people who have served their country.
“Our sense of history means we will never forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf and we support veterans in a number of ways.
“These include establishing our ex-services mentoring programme where veterans provide training to young people and our support for the Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Hub, which we helped to set up.
“We also recognise the contribution of community groups with awards like the Tom Davies Trophy. Congratulations to VIC, who deserve this accolade for their vital work right at the heart of the armed forces community.”
