2021 VIC News.
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Over four days before Xmas we made up and delivered 63 Xmas hampers to some of our volunteer and older veterans. This would not have been possible without the support of volunteers and the generous donations of food we’ve had so many organisations, volunteers and supporters.
We would like to particular like to thank; ASDA, TESCO, COOP, Alpine Fire in Bury and Park Cakes. Alpine Fire donated 6 hampers including a Harvey Nichols Xmas Hamper which was given to WW2 veteran Lewis Banham. Gemma Hebden also made up another special hamper for WW2 veteran Jack Riley, this year she was able to meet Jack in person and send some time talking to him. Hampers have been delivered around Rossendale, Burnley, Pendle, Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale. Our volunteers are very much key to what we do and without their support we couldn’t do what we do. A very big thank you for all those involved in this year Xmas Hampers. Asda Tesco Superstore Co-op Community: Haslingden, Waterfoot & Whitworth #Alpine_fire |
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One of our new members of the Model Railway Club kindly donated some models to the club. The club meet every Friday at the Accrington Veterans Drop-in in at the Accrington Arndale.
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On the 15th December we held our 9th members Xmas meal at the Rose and Bowl in Stacksteads. We had over 50 attend this year. It gets better each year and this year we had two hampers to raffle off.
Chris Smethurst and Jacko and Ann Peace provided these fantastic hampers. The winners were Phil Speddy and Bev Fowler. It was good to see so many of us back together after the last 18 months and it was good to see all were enjoying themselves. |
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VIC were the beneficiaries of a fundraising Rock Night organised by the Throttle Twisters MCC, News & Events on Friday 10th December. We'd like to thank the club for choosing us. It was a brilliant night at the North Chadderton Social & Bowling Club and the band were fantastic.
They made us feel very welcomed and thank them for their support. It was very well organised so well done to the club, a lot of hard work went into putting last night together. A grand total of £650 was raised on the ticket sales, raffle and donations. |
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Over the last few weeks we have taken on another young person through North Lancs Training Group - NLTG and Bailey has been helping around the Centre and working on our Remembrance Benches. After we finished the Remembrance wall we had to find space for our awards and other certificates. On Friday 10th December we have finished our reception area. Good effort Bailey
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We would like to thank Laura Saxton from Asda and Michael from the Colne Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club for the donation towards our Xmas hampers for our elderly and vulnerable veterans on Friday 10th December. Thanks Tony Davies for coming across from Colne. We very much appreciate your support and donations.
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Thursday 9th December was our fourth Greggs RV at the VIC Centre and we had another full room. The quiz master was Raymond Sharkey, and two more members came along for the first time; Lewis and Barnsey.
We look forward to seeing everyone there again on Thursday for a Greggs, wet and a quiz |
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Many thanks to those of you who came to listen and support our wonderful VIC choir on Saturday the 4th December at Asda in Rawtenstall. We raised a fabulous £302.61. We wish you a Merry Christmas
This was the first supermarket performance since the UK went into lockdown in 2020. |
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We would like to Ninja Coffee for this donation.
Ninja Coffee Company will be donating 10p per coffee sold in our shops, The Hill & Adrenaline Sports Centre. Retrospectively from 1st December! |
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On the 29th November the Mayor of Ribble Valley Councillor Tony Austin invited VIC to a luncheon. Tony Austin is raising money for VIC during his year of office and invited Project Worker Ray Sharkey and volunteer Ron Flowers to attend a luncheon for fellow Lancashire Mayors at Whalley Golf Club.
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At the end of August a Charity Fund raiser for Veterans In Communities at the Sydney Street Social Club in Accrington.
John popped into the VIC Centre with Keith Walmsley and was introduced to VIC and to see the work we do. John and his members, headed up by Neil Payton who organised everything, and were keen to have a charity event in support of the local Veterans in the Hyndburn area. The event was attended by Lewis Ullah aged just 19 and an England professional snooker player. Lewis won the 2021/2022 Under 21 Premier Development Tour Event four, the lads were keen to play against Lewis and they were bidding in the auction to win a chance to play him. The lads enjoyed the evening with Lewis and through their efforts managed to raise £200. We thank John, Neil and the club for raising money for VIC which will go to support the Veterans Drop-in in Accrington. |
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Towards the end of November we had a visit from a veteran Steve Jary who asked whether we could make use of a large wreath and table with a Remembrance book. When we saw it we were blown away, a stunning piece. However his request was that it would be placed in a prominent position when you’d walk into the building.
Although we already had a Lest We Forget Remembrance Wall that combined a number of VIC paintings, fretwork, crafts and some donated Poppy items we felt this piece would have to become the focal point of any wall. VIC outreach worker Steve Butterworth got to work at the end of November. The wall was prepared and repainted with a green that would set the red poppies off. Over the next 9 days we had to plan the layout, hang the large wreath, make a few adjustments to the table, reusing two old table legs we had in the back yard, deciding which pieces to display and then produce the finished display. The end result is absolutely stunning and a great focal point when you enter the VIC Centre in Haslingden. Thanks to those who were involved over the 9 days it took to transform the VIC reception. |
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VIC members Philip Chamberlain Aaron Lorimer Ian Rosales Gordon Aaron and Bob Elliott attended the Rossendale Business Awards on the evening of the 1st December. We were a Finalist in the Not For Profit category.
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On Thursday the 25th November we held our third Greggs RV at the VIC Centre in Haslingden, and it was attended by ex service personnel from every decade since the 1940's. One of our attendees was a D-Day veteran who cleared the beaches of immobilised vehicles before fighting his way through Normandy with the 15th Highland Infantry Division. The event was a great success and Brian McEvoy also gave a demonstration in the art of 'Pyrography' which is the production of items using wood burning techniques and is absolutely stunning. The Victoria Cross is also one of his pieces and will be on display at VIC soon.
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On the 24th November VIC members and our North Lancs Training work placement Bailey completed a small community project at the Haslingden Community Link. We had been asked to help with laying a base and assembling a small garden shed for their community garden. Thanks to Andy Greaves and Bailey for their hard work today.
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On Tuesday 23rd November, Bob Brindley who leads on the VIC Railway Club paid a visit to the Sandbag Café to meet Vinnie Haughton, Vinnie has donated a large amount of model railway to VIC.
Bob took some of the model making equipment so Vinnie could make a bridge base for the model in the Accrington Veterans Drop-in. |
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It was good to see some of our younger members in the Hide at the VIC Centre on Thursday 18th November chatting over a coffee and Greggs.
Brian and Gordon call in most Thursdays and today they were joined by WW2 veteran Jack. We have been thinking for some time how we can hold a coffee/ chat afternoon at the VIC Centre which could coincide with our Greggs day. Watch this space for more news..... |
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The ladies from the Crafty Chatters group have been working on this stunning masterpiece for a few weeks for Operations Manager Bob Elliott.
"I would personally like to thank the ladies from the VIC Crafty Chatters group for making this blanket for me. Last year my dad passed away during the COVID lockdown, and my mum is suffering from Alzheimer’s. This blanket has been made using his old clothes which I’m sure she will recognise and give her some comfort as she is currently in hospital. So on behalf of the family a very big heartfelt thanks ladies, I couldn’t believe what you did out of some old clothes when you gave it me on Monday." |
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This year VIC and our members were able to attend a number of Remembrance services and parades, last year due to COVID the Remembrance services were low key so this year there has seen a much larger turnout than in the previous years. Our members have also supported the RBL Poppy Appeal, attended the Festival of Remembrance at Blackburn Cathedral and we were invited to the North Lancs Training Group Team brief at Accrington Townhall as their charity for this year. Although Remembrance is a time for remembering and reflection of the sacrifice those who have served and their families have made, and a time to catch up with old friends and making new friends. WE WILL REMEMBER.
Our members attended and laid some wreaths across Rossendale, Burnley, Hyndburn, Clitheroe, Heywood, Middleton, Rochdale, Oldham, Bury, Ramsbottom, Florida, Gibraltar and at the London Cenotaph. |
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On Friday 12th November VIC were invited to have a stand at the North Lancs Training Group - NLTG team brief at the Accrington Townhall, we would like to thank their staff for their generous donations and to Michael Nutter for arranging it.
Some of our members also attended a short service at the Accrington Cenotaph. |
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During the Poppy Appeal, two of our members helped collect at Tesco in Haslingden. This is Brian's and Buffy's second year and and Pat's first.
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Last month Brian McEvoy made a plaque for a mother of a soldier who sadly lost his life in Afghanistan. Brian decided that the soldiers father and brother should also have one. Fantastic gesture Brian.
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On the 3rd November VIC staff and volunteers attended a half day SafeTALK course at the VIC Centre.
SafeTALK is training that prepares anyone over the age of 15 to identify persons with thoughts of suicide and connect them to suicide first aid resources. |
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At the beginning of November VIC were delighted to have been selected as a finalist in the Not For Profit category of the Rossendale Business Awards. Thank you so much for the original nomination and congratulations to the other finalists.
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VIC Ribble Valley Coffee Morning was yet another great success on the 2nd November and the group continues to grow by the week. We were honoured to be visited by The Mayor and Mayoress of Ribble Valley Cllr Tony Austin and his wife Pauline for their first public engagement in a while. Along with one other the Mayor has nominated Veterans In Communities as one of his chosen charities for this year and is keen to support the military and Emergency service veterans in the Ribble Valley through the actions of VIC and the volunteer outreach team.
Good luck on her new ventures to Pat McEvoy who has been an inspiration in the Volunteer Outreach Team as she moves on to other challenges for the coming period, Pat we all salute you for your unflinching dedication to team VIC and all we do for ex service people and their families. Rest assured she will be back after her stint volunteering with some other charities. Good Luck Pat. |
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On the 29th October, Veterans In Production were asked by Mulberry Roots which is day nursery in Haslingden to make up some flat pack furniture.
This was a very satisfying job when you saw the faces of the children when they sat on it for the first time. Over the last 2 years we have also made a bug hotel and bench for them and value their support. |
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On the 25th October Ninja Coffee came to the VIC Centre in Haslingden to provide us with some much needed tasty hot beverages, Brian McEvoy had made another outstanding piece of pyrography to thank Ninja for supporting our volunteers during the COVID marshalling at the start of the year. Matthew was blown away by the results which are absolutely amazing.
Keep up the amazing work you do Brian and all here at VIC and Ninja Coffee salute you. |
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Veterans In Production produced the 2021 window silhouette of a Saluting Soldier. These will on sale from the end of October for £20. [See More]
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The VIC Model Railway team are now putting the final touches to the lighting on the bridge at the Accrington veterans Drop-in. these LED are so small and very effective. There has been a lot of interest in this bridge from enthusiasts from across the world
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We had a small team of marshals out at a road crossing point in Stacksteads on Sunday 17th October for the Sabre Challenge. 25 teams competed and raised money for Rossendale Hospice, the course was 8 miles long and at various checkpoints the team had to complete some team tasks.
It was a fantastic day and over £8700 was raised for the Hospice. |
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We would like to thank Jacko Pearce sister for making these knitted teddies. These will be on sale at the Accrington Veterans drop-in for £7.50, they are limited and first come first served basis. The Accrington Drop-in has a good range of different crafts, painting, pyrography and Remembrance items.
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On the 13th October our CEO Amanda Walton and Outreach Worker Steve Butterworth were invited to Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School to a Careers Fair where the GCSE students got the chance to learn all about military careers and the work of VIC.
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Despite falling and cutting his face before the start of the Manchester half
marathon, 86-yearold Gordon Aaron A member of the Sandbag Café completed the race. He was on the way to the start, when the Army veteran fell and cut his face. He called for paramedics, but after 20 minutes, when none had arrived, he decided to complete the run despite the injury. Although he was late to the start line, and had blood on his face, VIC member Gordon finished the race. Project Worker Bev Fowler said: “Despite getting injured on the way to the start, Gordon was determined to still take part and finished in a brilliant time of 3 hours and 4 minutes. “He showed fantastic determination and it was a real achievement.” |
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Brian McEvoy who leads on the Pyrography project has produced another stunning piece of work. Brian lives in Clayton-le-Moors and saw on one the regional news programmes a mother being interviewed. Sadly her son lost his life in Afganistan and Brian decided to produce this piece and give it to her. He had no connection with her and this was presented to her at the Accrington Veterans drop-in
She was thrilled to bits. |
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Veterans in Communities were thrilled to discover that following Operation Return we had been nominated in the Rossendale Business Awards. Thank you for the nomination. Good luck to all the nominees.
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The Veterans In Communities launch of the new venue for the Ribble Valley Coffee Morning at the Trinity Methodist Church Community Hub in Clitheroe was a great success with friends and members old and new joining us for cake and a brew. Also attending the landmark event was Ian Barber Project Lead - Lancashire Armed Forces Covenant Hub, and Cllr Richard Sherras, the Armed Forces Champion for the Ribble Valley who came to show support for this project which aims to pull together all the diverse health and wellbeing Proscribing organisations that have a presence in the district for the benefit of the military and Blue Light veterans of the Ribble Valley. [More]
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The Sandbag Café was busy on the 5th October, it is great to see some new members attending.
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On the 1st October members of the VIC Railway Club worked oh the LED lighting for the bridge. The attention is amazing. [More]
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Operation Return was a great success on the 1st October. We must’ve had close to 100 people in the Centre. Special thanks has to go Amanda Walton and Amy Catherine Thompson for all the organising that went into today. It was good to hear the choir again after the lockdowns, they haven’t lost their touch or voices. Darren Horsnell for giving a Bob Ross demonstration to four of our members. The crafty chatters were busy making more crafts.
Excellent turnout and it was great the see the Centre busy with volunteers and supporters again after over 18 months. The Mayor dropped in and had a tour of the Centre, great buffet and we sold over £125 worth of crafts, Xmas cards and Calendars. Overall a very good day, which couldn’t have been put together without the ASDA funding and our volunteers. |
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On the 28th September VIC members joined veterans from Burnley FC in the Community for a day trip to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. It was a great success and a chance for the veterans to pay their respects to their respective units and fallen comrades as well, a great day was had by all.
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The Sandbag Café still went ahead on the 28th September, considering most of the Sandbag members went to a trip down to the National Arboretum it was well attended by those who couldn't go. Thanks to Tony and Bev Fowler who ran it on the day.
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We have a new stock of clothing ready for sale. Hoodies are £22.50, Polo Shirts are £12.50, T shirts are £7.50. Good quality shell Jackets can be ordered at a cost of £25. If you would like to order any or need more information please call the office on 01706 833180 or email Darren Horsnell.
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Another stunning piece of pyrography made by Brian McEvoy as a special piece for the daughter of our CEO Amanda Walton who was returning to university for her second year. Amanda said she was blown away and Georgia was awestruck when it was given to her. Thank you so much Brian
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On Saturday 18th September members of the Ribble Valley outreach went on a walk organised by the team at 'Let's Live Life' who are a health and wellbeing group who operate out of the Roefield Leisure Centre. They hosted a Military Veteran and Blue Light Services 'Men's Walk and Talk' group in the historic town of Whalley. The walk was a huge success and a very enjoyable experience for all, the weather was great and we were guided on the event by Dave and Steve who run the events for 'Let's Live Life'.
The event will take place again in the future after we have consulted with the other membership on how often and regular to host the Walk and Talks. The emphasis of the walks is not about the physical activity itself but also the wellbeing aspect of having a gentle 2-3 Mile stroll whilst chatting to other like minded men in a secure space. Thanks again to Samantha Holden of 'Let's Live Life' and Dave and Steve |
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It was nice to see some other veterans utilising our workshop space in the sunshine on the 17th September. Dave and Graham donning their marigolds to stain the wood and putting together some special memorial benches. These benches will be available to buy in the near future. Watch this space......
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On the 15th September Gill Hughes our Transformation Coach on the BBO project joined one of our members on a walk up to the Halo in Haslingden.
Gary is also a participant of the BBO project and has been supported by Gill |
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The Sandbag Café had a good turn out on the 14th September, considering a lot of the members were away it was good to see so many there.
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On Wednesday 8th September members of the art group, developing veterans photography group and other VIC members enjoyed a day out at Bolton Abbey.
It was a great day and some painted the Abbey or took photographs using the skill they gained through the Developing Veterans Photography. [More pictures of the day] |
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Blackburn Rovers Community Trust officially launched their Breakfast Hub on the 7th September and there was an excellent attendance. Both the Mayor of Blackburn and Darwen, Councillor Derek Hardman and Colonel Stevie Davies MBE gave speeches and wished the Breakfast Hub every success for the future.
This Breakfast Hub is supported by VIC, the Veterans Living History Museum and Healthier Heroes. Blackburn Rovers Community Trust were also presented with a cheque for £1100 from Southern Solicitors to help with the first 12 months operating costs. The Breakfast Hub meet every Tuesday at Blackburn Rovers FC between 10.30 and 12.00. There is donation cost of £3 for the bacon or egg barm and brews. This Breakfast Hub will start to grow over the next few months and it’s great that Blackburn Rovers are supporting this. Blackburn Rovers Community Trust Veterans Living History Museum Healthier Heroes CIC Southerns Solicitors Limited |
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Over the weekend of the 4th & 5th September, we held another Bob Ross session at the VIC Centre. Great effort
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VIC members enjoyed a walk around Tottington on the 26th August, they were joined by Gordon Arron again.
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Our second Veterans In Production delivery on the 16th August was to to Crawshawbooth. One of our members made this using some of the pallets we stripped down. This a wheelie bin storage, a very nice piece and great solution to those unsightly wheelie bins outside the front of houses.
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Over the last few weeks our Veterans In Production made a garden Nook, it was a bespoke piece of garden furniture. This was delivered on the 16th August to a very happy customer in Great Harwood, it was a challenge to move and build as we had no plans and very unique. Thanks Graham Limb Raymond Sharkey Da Sped Jacko Pearce and Phillip Mills.
A job well done… and we had a no lovely buffet waiting for us. I’m glad to say Plan A worked |
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During the month of August our members of the Model Railway Club have been busy building a bridge in the basement of the Accrington Drop-in centre.
They meet every Friday between 10am -3pm. |
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We exhibited some of the art work our members have done at the Burnley FC in the Community Café in August. This has the first exhibition since we went into lockdown last year.
Although small it was well received by all those who saw the work. |
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On the 11th August held their first ‘Rovers Veterans Breakfast Hub’ and it was good to see their were 18 veterans taking part!
VIC are supporting this Breakfast Hub alongside the Veterans Living History Museum. This Breakfast Hub meet every Tuesday at Blackburn Rovers FC. Over the next few months there are going to be a range of trips and activities which the veterans have asked for. Chris McGrail - Community Welfare Officer said; A huge thank you from our staff team to all involved, and if you missed it don’t worry, as next week we are back again at the same time 10:30-12:00. "Today was a huge step forward in supporting Veterans in Blackburn with Darwen. Blackburn Rovers Community Trust are committed to supporting our Veterans and this is just the beginning. A massive thank you to all who attended today and to those who have helped make this happen. I am really looking forward to launching and creating more and more opportunities for Veterans across the borough and surrounding areas" – Don’t forget to book by calling/emailing Chris 07787585109/Chris.McGrail@brfctrust.co.uk. |
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We had some sad news earlier in August that one of our members of the Sandbag Café in Heywood sadly passed away last Sunday. Brian Whitlow was 83 and served in the REME, and will be missed by all the members of the Sandbag Café.
We also heard that Tommy Norfolk who was member of the Trafford Veterans passed away on Wednesday morning, Tommy served in Special Air Service during WW2. We were very fortunate to meet him when he came up the VIC Centre in 2016 where he met Lewis Banham. More information on their funerals will be posted once we know. Both will be missed, RIP gentlemen. REspect |
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Sandbag members joined other veterans across the Rochdale Borough to a veterans Memorial Bench Unveiling on the 7th August.
An excellent turnout even though the weather was poor. The bench was organised by Terry Morley and the team at Re-org. Thank you for all who turned up and donated money to the bench in remembrance of all those Armed Forces Veterans who passed away during the lockdown of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Lest We Forget. Thank you |
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On the 6th August we announced the winners of the 12 prizes in the Summer Raffle that we had at the Accrington Drop-In. We made £106.10 and we don’t know where the 10p came from. Many thanks to all those people who brought to buy tickets.
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Happy Birthday Gordon Aaron 86 years young on the 3rd August. He spend his birthday at the top of Mount Snowdon.
Gordan set himself a challenge of walking 1000 miles to raise money for VIC. Good effort Gordan and thanks for the donation. |
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On the 3rd August VIC members joined the veterans from Burnley FC in the Community to watch the dress rehearsal of the junior soldiers passing out at the Harrogate Army Foundation College. The trip was organised by John Pluckwell and the team at Burnley FC in the Community.
Our members thoroughly enjoyed the morning, unfortunately as the College had just come out of COVID lockdown we couldn't get the full guided tour. There were 671 students and 24 DS staff on parade, the junior soldiers were then going to join their respective Regiments and units to continue with their training. The junior soldiers ranged from 16 -18 years old and the dress and drill was exceptional. A credit to the College and their Instructors. |
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Over the weekend of the 31st July and 1st August, we held the first Bob Ross class after the lockdown where the could come back into the centre. This was a more difficult picture as it involved three canvases.
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One of the members of the VIC Railway club Joe Davis put together a small layout of track and buildings whilst at the Accrington veterans drop-in on the 30th July.
A was good to see a train going around the track and the group can now to start to build on it so it can be a working model.[More] |
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At the end of July we set up a small art exhibition at the Burnley FC in the Community Community kitchen. Some of our members sold a couple of pictures. Well done to outreach worker Steve Butterworth for setting up.
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Just a few weeks after the launch of the Clitheroe outreach and coffee morning and it continues to get a good regular attendance. Thanks to Project worker Ray Sharkey and his team for making this another successful VIC outreach venue. [More information on the Clitheroe outreach for Ribble Valley]
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Picture by Catherine Smyth
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Graham Limb completed his 1,000,000 step challenge on the 19th July. On his final walk he was joined by our CEO Amanda Walton and Catherine Smyth to give him moral support. Graham has developed a bit of a taste for Ninja Coffee and they were at the outside the VIC Centre to see him finish. A great effort by Graham and VIC is proud of his achievement and the money he has raised for us.
The donation page has already increased to £915... [More about Graham and his walk] |
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On Tuesday 19th July VIC members Shep, Phil and Andy (who are also members of the Burnley FC in the Community veteran group) joined the cooking course at the Burnley FC Community Kitchen after their breakfast at the weekly breakfast club. They were taught how to prepare a Zigeuner schnitzel, a rare treat and some top skills shown. Apart from someone shrinking the aprons it was a great day.
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We'd like to thank Christine Adams for dropping off some seed potatoes for our allotment. Planted and looking forward to eating them.
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Ian Rosales came into the centre on the 16th July to make a garden bench for two of the members from the The Sandbag Café. The wanted a bench they could put in the back garden. This was only a prototype but it looks so good it's going to be something we can add to our portfolio to sell in the future.
If you're interested in getting involved in Veterans In Production please let me know. We have got orders which we want to crack on with over the summer. |
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On the 15th July our walking group was joined by Gordon Aaron who is walking 1000 miles to raise money for VIC. It was decided to extend the walk and apart from Rivington Pike we also took in Winter Hill and explored the gardens and Liverpool Castle. Refreshments after at the café
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We had a works party helping out at the The Whitaker - Rossendale Museum and Art Gallery on the 14th July. We were asked whether we would clear the cobbled area of weeds ready for the grand opening. It was a pleasure to help out today and the transformation and restoration has been amazing, their volunteers have done a great job during the restoration. Thanks to our works party Ray, Lorraine, Bob, Joe and Gary. Outstanding effort.
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VIC Sandbag members have started to meet again at the Rochdale Breakfast Club on the 1st July.
This is a new location as the previous ones were held at the Town Hall, they are now being held at touchstones Art Gallery for the foreseeable future. |
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June has been busy month at the Allotment, members have spent many hours preparing the beds, laying new chippings, filling the beds with new soil, making repairs to the existing beds and water tanks, weeding and planting new seeds. Great effort team.
Steve Butterworth said; Thanks to Jacko Pearce , Mick Hinder, Bob Brindley, Joe Davis and Leoni, for their valuable time and efforts at the allotment. A friend of mine delivered a lorry load of bark and the guys have done a Sterling job barrowing it in and spreading. The transformation is there for all to see, since our return from lockdown. Also please remember, this is your allotment, it's there to be used, even if all you want to do, is sit in the sun. Thanks also to Roy Davis for the donation of seeds, they will be put to good use. |
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On Friday 25th June the VIC Armed Forces week roadshow ended at the Accrington Veterans drop-in.
It was a great day with a lot of the public and our members dropping in to help celebrate with us. |
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We had a day off from the VIC Armed Forces Roadshow on the 24th June so we had a BBQ for the members and staff in the Centre and for those who helped strip down the pallets over the last few weeks. One of our members Darren Horsnell provided the meat from J M. Harris butchers in Haslingden , and Angela Thorpe who is the veterans champion for Tesco provided the bread and some salad.
It was good to spend some time together outside over a BBQ and just talk. Thanks to Darren, and Tesco’s for providing the food. |
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Day three of the VIC Armed Forces week Roadshow was at the Tesco store in Haslingden on the 23rd June. Another great success and we met a lot of people again, we also raised £273 which was an outstanding amount considering most are using bank cards due COVID.
A big thanks to Angela Thorpe the Tesco community champion and the donations from the public and students from Haslingden High School. We would like to thank our team for helping out. Great effort. |
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It is with great sadness that we have to announce the sad loss of fellow veteran, member of VIC and friend Mick Armstrong who served in the Royal Irish Rangers. Mick passed away peacefully in the early hours of the 22nd June in Blackburn General Hospital.
Mick had been diagnosed with Cancer in early December 2020. Although seriously ill he was determined to attend the reopening of the Breakfast Club and meet up with his many friends. Our condolences go to his son David and family and his many friends. Funeral details will be made available at a later date. Rest in Peace Michael Kevin Armstrong 10/04/1956 - 22/06/2021 |
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Day two of the VIC Armed Forces Roadshow coincided with the launch of the new veterans coffee morning on Tuesday on the 22nd June.
A great launch this morning for the new Clitheroe veterans coffee morning. Outstanding effort Raymond Sharkey for setting up of what looks to be another successful outreach, and well done to the VIC members who helped this morning. The Mayor of Ribble Valley Councillor Tony Austin and his wife Pauline, the Mayoress, were guests of honour at the first Veterans in Communities coffee morning at The Family Thrive Centre next to Clitheroe Market. Also in attendance was the previous Mayor Councillor Stella Brunskill who had donated money from her Mayoral year to the charity and that has helped cover rental costs until the coffee morning is sustainable. |
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We launched the start of this years Armed Forces Week on the 21st June by taking the VIC Roadshow to Heywood. We set the van up at the Morrisons Car Park for three hours; tomorrow we are at Clitheroe to launch our new weekly veteran’s coffee morning, Wednesday we are at the Tesco’s in Haslingden and Friday we are at the Accrington Veterans Drop-in. We had planned to be at the Burnley FC in the Community Armed Forces and football event on Saturday but sadly due to the COVID restrictions they had to cancel.
We had a great day today and met a lot of people in the short time we were there. Thanks to Morrisons for allowing us their car park and giving us brews, and to the volunteers who came and helped. |
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On the 21st June VIC raised the Armed Forces Day flag at Greenfield Gardens in Haslingden.
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A huge thank you to Sign It Up for the free posters for our VIC Roadshow. Excellent speedy service from a fabulous local firm. Thank you
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The pallets have disappeared....... We finished stripping down the pallets on the 17th June and took all the waste to the recycled tip.
This was a great effort by all those who were involved and it took just 12 days, outstanding. |
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When we came into work on the morning of the 17th June we saw these outside the VIC Centre. sadly we lost Carole Mills at the end of 2019 and Tracey Vick last September.
Both are still very much missed by VIC and its members. |
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The works party stripping the pallets down on the 15th June did a great job and we are hoping to have the pallet mountain finished by the end of the week.
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The 14th June was the launch of the small charity week. Over the week we asked our members what VIC means to them.
Thanks to all our volunteers and staff who make Veterans In Communities a great place to be part of. |
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Another week another pallet. The pallet mountain is going down quite quickly and thanks to the works party on the 14th June.
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THE VIC Railway club met at the Accrington drop-in on the 11th June and have completed more work on their base boards.
Bob Brindley said. Its official the writings on the wall, There is no turning back, the bridge base is now in which will be about 8 feet in old money, or 2.4 m in new money. We are going to start building the bridge piers next week and start sanding the walls ready for painting, we still have another sixteen feet of base board to build. |
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VIC members enjoyed a walk at Blackstone Edge on the 10th June.
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Another day and mountain is slowly going down. Thanks to the works party for stripping down more pallets.
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Another day............. another pallet.
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A small works party continued to strip down down the pallets on 9th June. Great effort guys.
The mountain is slowly going down..... |
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National Volunteers’ Week has drawn to a close, and it seems appropriate to also convey a HUGE thanks to our paid members of staff who have worked tirelessly throughout this, the most difficult of years.
The Trustees and CEO of VIC would like to say thank you to:- • Bob – who has overseen the delivery team in supporting our members throughout the pandemic and arranged the logistics in food parcel deliveries and volunteer marshals at the vaccination centre for five months. • Ray – who has supported our members in Hyndburn, Ribble Valley and Rossendale • Bev – who has supported VIC members who reside in Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale • Amy – who has assisted with administration support to both the delivery team and the CEO • Steve – who has supported our members in Burnley and Pendle • Gill – who has remained in constant contact with and supported those members who have engaged with our Building Better Opportunities, Changing Futures project • Carol – who has cleaned the centre daily ensuring that we have remained sanitised and Covid free. Thank you to each and every one of you who has helped to support VIC and our members. |
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DAY SEVEN
On this, the final day of National Volunteers Week, the staff, volunteers and members of VIC wish to convey thanks to the Board of Trustees of Veterans in Communities. The Board oversee the governance of VIC ensuring everything we do is done correctly and legally - they also are volunteers doing this in their own time. Please can we convey a HUGE thanks to Ronnie Barker, Barry Payton, Colin Crawforth, Christine Gill, Barry Hyde, David Peat and Bob Smethurst. |
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DAY SIX
Trustees and staff want to say a HUGE thank you to all of our volunteers who have helped out at the vaccination centres: Jo and David Billington, Stephen Boys, Steve Butterworth, Philip Chamberlain, Bob Elliott, Ron Flowers, Pat McEvoy, Gary and Joyce Horrocks, Graham Limb, Ivy Limbrick, Barry Payton, Simon Peace, Jacko Pearce, Jo Shakeel, Raymond Sharkey, Peter Shinzel, Catherine Smyth, Phil Spedy, Sean Serridge, Keith Shepherd, Bob Smethurst, Lorraine Taylor, Bernard Tighe, Amy Thompson, Darren Veevers and Vera White. |
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DAY FIVE
Trustees and staff of VIC want to convey a HUGE thanks to our team of volunteers who help with our outreach activities. Today we want to thank Phil Chamberlain, Keith Shepherd, Jim Smith and Jacko Perace who have been helping at Burnley including the centre at Whitehough, Aaron Lorimer who is going to be assisting Ray in Ribble Valley and Mike Sutcliff who helps with our Pendle outreach team. |
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DAY FOUR
The Trustees and staff wish to pass a HUGE thanks to our volunteers who help to run our groups and activities, many of which help VIC to be more sustainable. Special thanks go to : • Darren Horsnell who oversees the Creative Community Hub including the art group; • Ivy Limbrick who runs the Crafty Chatters, helps at the allotment and organises our walks and trips; • Steve Butterworth who takes the lead on our allotment project along with Bob Brindley Joe Davies and Jacko Pearce; • Bernard Tighe who leads the Veterans in Production project; • Bob Brindley who is overseeing the model railway club; • Sally-Anne Fort, Jane Tandy and Chris Gott who helped with the on-line art group when Darren wasn’t available. • Cath Mitton, Pat McEvoy, Mel Fitzgerald and John Edwards who all provide support to VIC and our members. • Peter Ashworth who has helped to deliver training sessions enabling VIC members to use tablets and stay connected VIC also wish to thank all of our volunteers who have made products for us to sell or have joined in these groups and projects helping to raise funds for us – Brian McEvoy, Janet Atwell, Chris Smethurst, Jane Harvey, Vera Ellis, Irene Peel, Jane Harvey, Emma Petherbridge, Tracey Gilbertson and Liz Taylor. |
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One of members Stephen Boyes made himself a bird house from some of the wood from the pallets we had delivered earlier in the week. Good effort Steve.
Steve said. Thanks to you Bob, I have learnt a few new, and very useful skills today "every day is a learning day" Thanks Bob for all your help today. Phillippa (Philly) my wife was very happy when I showed it to her, |
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On Friday 4th June our members of the railway club met at the Accrington veterans drop-in to make some benches for the model railway.
Thanks to Lawrence, for his help and ideas today and also Callum. We now have 44 feet of base board built still a way to go though. The black board behind Callum, is believe it or not is a base for a bridge, which will be about 8 feet in length. |
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DAY THREE
Continuing our thanks to the volunteers who help to run VIC activities, today the Trustees and staff want to say a HUGE thank you to the Committee members of Sandbag café. The committee have helped to run the café every week ensuring everyone is welcomed and their needs are catered for. Thanks to Ian Rosales, Liz Hennel, Bob Fallon, Liz and Lauren Davies, Alison Mitchell, Peter Shinzel, Mitch and Tony Wolfenden. Special thanks are given to Ian Rosales, Bob and Pam Fallon and Peter Shinzel who have gone above and beyond the call of duty in supporting VIC members in Heywood who would have otherwise been isolated during the lockdown. They have visited our members (whilst socially distancing), been shopping for them and even taken them to receive their vaccinations. A huge thank you to all, we couldn’t do it without you. |
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DAY TWO
We want to thank all our volunteers who have helped to run VIC Hyndburn successfully as and when we were allowed to open. Special thanks go to Pat McEvoy, Gary Horrocks, Brian McEvoy and Graham Limb who have all helped to welcome visitors and sell our wares in the shop. Special thanks to Darren Horsnell who ran the art group held there and remotely when we had to close. Special thanks also to Bob Brindley who has initiated the Model Railway club in the basement. The Trustees and staff of VIC want to say a HUGE thank you to our volunteers at VIC Hyndburn, we couldn’t do it without you. |
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We had a wagon load of pallets from JJO delivered on the 2nd June, and set to work stripping them down. Stephen William Boys, Bernard Tighe and Wolfgang Simon Peace spent the rest of day stripping them down.
Also thanks to Jacko Pearce, Graham Limb, Brian McEvoy and Gary Horrocks helped unloading. Wolfgang even had time to put the hotdogs on. |
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National Volunteers week started on the 1st June and over the next seven days our CEO Amanda Walton posted a thank you on our Facebook page. The Trustees and staff of VIC want to say a HUGE thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers who have pulled out all the stops through this, the most difficult of years.
DAY ONE. First thanks of the week go to Andy and Sarah Bell. They have made and delivered soup and a roll each week to veterans from the Sandbag café every week when we had to close. Andy and Sarah receive special thanks for making and delivering Christmas meals for veterans who would have otherwise been alone over the festive period. They did this on Christmas Day whilst also looking after five young children at home. |
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On Thursday 27th May we marshalled for the last time, it was great to see so many of the marshals come to the morning and afternoon shift.
Bob Elliott said. "When the call came we answered in the true traditions of those who have served in the armed forces. In years to come when the COVID pandemic is over and everyone reflects how and what they did, we can hold our heads up knowing our support helped around 40000 with getting their vaccines over the five months. When I committed VIC to provide marshals at the beginning of the year I didn’t know how long it would be for and how many volunteers we’d have at the end. I pleased we not only kept most of the original volunteers but gained new ones. You’re all a credit to VIC and humbled by the support you’ve given not only to me but the charity. Outstanding effort REspect We were only a part of the vaccine programme, and there were many more involved in the whole process that should also be recognised and acknowledged. The NHS staff, other volunteers, First Responders and we have to include the vast majority of the public who have come forward to get their vaccine at the earliest opportunity. It is fair to say it hasn’t always been easy with some people coming to get their vaccine but we’ve all risen above it and acted in a professional manner. I would like to think all the others have had a positive experience and recognised the effort all those working on the vaccine programme have put in to make it a successful vaccine site. I’ve made new friends and got to know those I know so much better. It’s been a pleasure and honour to work with all the volunteers over the last five months. It’s been a blast..... you did okay" |
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One of COVID marshals and member Gary Horrocks was presented with a certificate of recognition for his volunteering on the COVID vaccination programme.
Gary said "The work I have been blessed with, has given me more confidence and fellowship from when I began marshalling for the COVID vaccination roll out in Rawtenstall. It's also given me so many laughs. But seriously, on my first few days it was so emotional to see people who have been shielding for such a long time, to see that they were actually gaining the light at the end of the tunnel. It's truly been a volunteer role that I will remember and fantastic to see that I have been instrumental with the national jabs. Thanks to all who have been there who have helped me so much. |
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During the morning and afternoon shifts on the 25th May, our COVID marshals were presented with a mug form Ninja Coffee and certificates of recognition from the Primary Care Network and the Mayor of Rossendale as a thank you for all the shifts we have covered.
This is one of the last shifts we are covering as after five months we are getting back to our normal activities. |
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On the 23rd May members of the VIC Railway Club met at the Accrington Drop-in to start on the making the boards that will go around the walls. for their model.
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CEO Amanda Walton, Chair Ronnie Barker, Stella Brunskill and trustee David Peat
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On the 20th May we welcomed Councillor Stella Brunskill the retiring Mayor of Ribble Valley to the VIC Centre , she presented a cheque to our chair Ronnie Barker and one of our trustees David Peat.
Councillor Brunskill comes from a military family and her son Michael, who serves in the forces, was her consort. When she selected charities to benefit from money raised during her year as Mayor, as well as Ribble Valley causes, she also picked Veterans In Communities, which works with armed forces veterans and emergency services across East Lancashire and Greater Manchester. Outreach Worker Ray Sharkey is in the process of setting up a new VIC coffee morning, drop in and outreach at The Family Thrive Centre, New Market Street, Clitheroe and the funds will help with on costs. Councillor Brunskill, who ended up serving for two years because of the pandemic, said: “VIC received 50 per cent of what was raised and as I am the Children’s Champion on Ribble Valley Borough Council the rest supported families to support activities to return after the pandemic. “Money was given to family projects Longridge Youth Band, Clitheroe Dolphins swimming club and Mellor Junior Football Club and there was also some left over to make a contribution towards the Little Green Bus.” Chief Executive of VIC, which is based in Haslingden, Amanda Walton said: “We are very grateful to Councillor Brunskill for the donation of £1,000 which we will be put back into the Ribble Valley as we will be using it to cover fees, including rent, for our new veterans’ coffee morning. “The money will help to cover costs until it becomes self-sufficient.” Ray is planning to open the coffee morning during national Armed Forces Week on Tuesday June 22 from 10am to 12. The Thrive Family Centre centrally located near the market, bus station and train station. |
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On Tuesday 18th May we re-opened the Sandbag Café and what a pleasure it was to be back at the Sandbag Café with members only communicating via zoom since before Christmas, a special morning was had by all who attended, as can be seen in the photos below, the one of Gordon and Vinny showing what a special moment meeting face to face was, sometimes we forget how important these events can be, especially to those living on their own.
A big thankyou was made to Andy and Sarah Bell for all their hard work during lockdown, these two wonderful people kept a smile on members faces by providing meals and a listening ear, how this is possible with five young children at home never ceases to amaze me. Another big shout out must go to VIC volunteer Iain Rosalles, who like Andy and Sarah has given up time willingly and freely, visiting those who would have been most unlikely to see anyone at all. Iain also has helped at Sandon House delivering meals. Bev Fowler has managed to keep things on an even keel as well, doing what she does best dealing with any welfare queries but not having had her second jab yet, was not able to attend on Tuesday morning, Fear not however, as in the great words of Arnie, she will be back. Zoom was great when needed and we were very lucky getting the grant to provide the tablets to our members however I think we would all agree that a bacon butty and a brew at Sandbag cant be beaten. |
Picture by Graham Limb
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On Saturday the 15th May we re-opened the centre to our first Bob Ross art class.
Darren said 'Many thanks to all those who attended the 'painting in the style of Bob Ross' class and all your kind words of inspiration. Since Tracey Vick passed away I have lost the interest and the will to paint. Knowing so many were waiting to start this group again gave me what I needed to start running monthly classes again. We could have filled the room but due to social distancing we could only fit six in the room. We will be running classes the last Saturday and Sunday of every month from now on. Notices will be made with the dates and details two weeks before each class. Well done all this month, there were all great results and it was great to do some painting again.' |
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Three of our regular members of the walking group; Peter, Linda and Ivy took the opportunity to meet outside after the restrictions were eased in May to walk around Grain Road. The weather was one of the better days we had at the start of May.
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We are pleased to announce that we have been short listed in the 'The Armed Forces Community Lockdown Awards' in the Most Outstanding Charitable Contribution or Gesture in Lockdown category.
[READ MORE] |
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On the 11th May we had a generous donation of food from TECSO' to restock our food parcel supplies. It was great to meet Angela Thorpe this morning. Angela is the new community champion at Tesco Haslingden. Thanks to Angela, Stephen and Tesco
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On the 10th May one of our regular COVID marshals had his last shift, he has recently been elected as a local councillor in Burnley and couldn't commit as much as he would've liked like.
Phil Chamberlain 'Well today was a little emotional as I commenced my last shift on the Rossendale Hub Vaccination Site. Over the last 5 1/2 months I and my fellow veterans have experienced the very best of human nature. We have been well received by some quite vulnerable members of our communities. We, of course, have had our fair share of conflict from time to time also, but we all had training during our service to deal with that. I have been truly honoured to have worked alongside so many quite wonderful people who just happen to be veterans. Veterans In Communities (VIC) and the wider veteran community who have all volunteered, I salute you' |
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The Sandbag Café were told on the Zoom meeting on the 11th May that the Sandbag Café could resume again on the 18th. They were very happy to get to meet everybody again after the Lockdown.
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On the 6th May we were donated a large amount of fruit and vegetables to distribute amongst our members and the surplus we gave to Positive Start Food Group., A huge ‘Thank You’ to Sam Place from the Fruit and Veg Place in Crawshawbooth. Unfortunately he is having to close, but rather than having his produce go to waste, he wanted to donate to a local group. Sam is a veteran himself, and will call into the centre to get involved more when he can. He was discharged with an injury and is in the process of joining back up when his fitness is back.
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On the 5th May VIC members, members from the Burnley veterans and John CT Pluckwell the new project worker from Burnley FC in the Community stripped out a kitchen that had been donated by one of our long standing members Janet Attwell. They were having a new kitchen fitted and wanted to donate it instead of having to put it into a skip.
Burnley FC in the Community have offered one of the huts at Whitehough Outdoor Centre to the Burnley veterans group where they meet each Tuesday. They have been helping with the general maintenance for over 18 months. They kitchen is being fitted by the veterans themselves as this will be a longer term project to make their hut a regular meeting place. |
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We received some very sad news on Friday 30th April. Harvey 'Paddy' O'Hara sadly passed away on 29th April. Paddy was the last of E Troop No 4 Commando who landed on D-Day. He was 97 and was a regular at the Accrington shop with his grandson Brett O'Hara, he featured in the March newsletter when he was given a tablet from the Veterans Should not Be Forgotten Programme and gave a short interview to Catherine Smyth Media.
Paddy's story is fascinating and is recorded, and was one of Alexandra Fleming's guinea pigs and there no question that this saved his life in 1944. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Brett, his family and those who had the pleasure in meeting him. Paddy's funeral will be held at Burnley Crematorium on Wednesday 26th May. REspect Paddy a true hero. |
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2021 CHRISTMAS CARDS. We are pleased to announce the winners of this years Christmas Card competition. Congratulations to Ivy Limbrick, ( photo of snowy landscape) Carol Duckworth, (photo of couple walking in the woods) Vanessa Winterburn, ( Animated Christmas tree) Bernard Tighe, (Photo of the three deer) Jane Tandy, ( embroidered Christmas tree) and Graham Limb. (Red Robin)
The cards will be printed ready for sale or distribution in August 2021. Massive thanks for all the entries, they were of a very high standard. Special thanks for the judges who had a very hard job choosing the final six cards. |
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Accrington veterans drop-in opened the doors for the first time this year on Friday 23rd April once the restrictions eased at the end of April. We had a great turnout of our members who had been waiting for it to reopen, and we had a lot of people calling in to look at some of the art and craft goods on sale.
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The VIC marshals had a nice surprise whilst on shift on the 27th April. Two of our members Linda and John who was getting their second vaccinations dropped of some home-baked chocolate and fairy cakes for the volunteer marshals.
Big thanks also go to Jo Shakeel for dropping by and saying hello to her fellow VIC Vaccination team and she brought some bite-size white choc Rocky Roads and some mini Choc muffins. Ladies, the volunteers Marshall's and NHS staff salute you. |
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On the 27th April the VIC Centre was very honoured to have been a part of a very special and totally unexpected meeting between two people who had previously only heard about each other. Paul and Jane Whittaker had never met before but when Jane popped in today to see some artwork and discuss her late father's actions at the Battle of Sidi Nsir in North Africa for the 155 Battery of the Royal Artillery, this was the opportunity for both to meet up.
Regrettably, Jane's Cousin and friend Priscilla Richardson passed away and they decided that rather than dispose of her 1 bedroom flat's worth of pristine goods, they decided to donate them to a veteran who was in need. |
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On the 15th April we held our second walk since restrictions were eased. Members enjoyed a walk around Oswaldtwistle Moors. The weather was lovely.
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Brian McEvoy presented one of his creations using a combination of pyrography, drawing and painting of a world map to Helen Horrocks yesterday at the VIC Centre. He wanted to donate it to a group who would appreciate it and where children could learn all about the different countries and animals around the world, particularly as he lived and worked in many of the countries himself. The world map was inspired by his travels around the world and showed the range of animals in each continent and was in the style that young children would recognise.
Helen is the partner of one of our members Gary, both are members of the Brave Church in Oswaldtwistle, and Helen works at the pre-school for 2–4-year-old children. Helen says the map is great to show to the children and gives a good learning experience of the world and its animals that children would easily recognise from reading books. Brian was working on this along with several of his other pieces during lock down but was unable to present it until the restrictions eased. Another great piece from Brian and I’m sure so many will enjoy learning from it. |
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One of our members Brian McEvoy as a special thank you for the support they've provided for our COVID marshals presented this hand made plaque to the team at ASDA in Rawtenstall
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One of our members Peter Shinzel took one of last WW2 Royal Signals Wireless Operator Bernard Munton (Retired) who was 98 years young on the 8th April to a special gift from the government, his second COVID vaccination that was administered by a young doctor whilst the NHS Team sang Happy Birthday.
A big THANK YOU to everyone at Littleborough Vaccinations Centre for making Bernard's second lockdown birthday special, unfortunately Bernard doesn't have access to social media however, he has received a birthday card and messages of best wishes from the Sandbag Cafe veterans.... "Happy Birthday Bernard" |
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Project worker Ray Sharkey collected some cakes, biscuits and brewing tackle from Laura Saxton, the Community Champion at ASDA's in Rawtenstall on the 9th April.
We thank them for their continued support for our COVID marshals. |
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We heard some sad news at the beginning of April that one of the WW2 veterans who was a regular at the Sandbag Café sadly passed away at Salford Royal. Jack Cunnane was 98 and served in the REME. Jack's funeral was held on the at 26th April at 1pm at the Hollinwood Crematorium in Oldham. RIP Jack REspect
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Our marshals at the Rawtenstall COVID Vaccination Site wore black arm bands made by one of the VIC craft group volunteers this week as a mark of REspect for the passing of HRH Prince Philip during the national week of mourning.
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VIC collected a full tin from Craig Fort, Manager at The Co-op Haslingden on the 9th April. We would like to say a huge thank you to their customers and staff for their donations which contributed to a fabulous amount of £146.84. Thanks for your continued support for Veterans in Communities.
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We heard some further sad news on the 8th April, Tony Stubbs who was one of our first outreach workers across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale passed away this morning in Bolton Hospital. Tony had been ill for a number of years, but this did not prevent him doing the things he liked. Tony started with us a member in 2013 and within 12 months he was a veterans champion with the Military Veterans Service in Bury and one of our volunteer outreach workers in Middleton and Heywood.
He helped out on numerous community projects in Middleton and Heywood, and established our Middleton allotment. Although he had health issues it didn’t stop him in getting involved in some of our more adventurous outdoor activities; including rafting, canoeing, high ropes, go carting, bushcraft and team building games. He was quickly recognized for his achievements in helping other veterans recover from alcohol and substance misuse, and those with mental health conditions. He made numerous TV appearances on regional breakfast TV programmes, radio shows and won numerous awards for his work. He was one of the champions for the Veterans Gateway when it formed and worked closely with Royal British Legion. Tony became a role model for many and went on to show others how they could improve their own mental health and change their behaviours by accessing the right support services. Tony made the decision to step back from many of the roles in 2018 to spend more time with his family and enjoy life. Tony's funeral was held at Southern cemetery in Manchester on the 4th April. You will be sadly missed my friend RIP Tony REspect. |
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We were contacted by the Rossendale BC housing team in February who were working with Paul to get him rehoused in Rossendale. Following a multi-agency meeting with ourselves, Rossendale BC housing team, Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust and the Calico Next Step Programme team, a plan was put into place to get him rehoused in Rossendale with a support package. At the same time, we had a call from Jane Whitaker who asked whether we needed some furniture as her cousin Priscilla Richardson had sadly passed away and would have wanted it to be given to a veteran, and it coincided with Paul’s rehousing plan.
Unfortunately, we could not move all the furniture out and delivered to his new flat straightaway as the flat would not have been ready, so we stored this at the Accrington Shop until he took possession of the keys to his new flat. Yesterday Paul signed his new tenancy agreement and was given the keys from together Housing. The last few days we have been planning the move, collection of the furniture from the Accrington shop and delivering to his flat. I am pleased to say this has gone well today and Paul is now safely in his new home before the Easter Holidays. His journey is just starting, and he will continue to get the support he will need over the next few months. A great result and it could not have been achieved without the multi-agencies involved. There are few people that need a mention; Healthier Heroes CIC for acting quickly and getting him rehoused in emergency housing, the team at Together Housing, Elizabeth from the Housing options Team, Jon and Ben from the Calico Homes Next step Programme, Ellie-Jo from Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, Jane for thinking of VIC and offering the furniture, Ruby & Daisy for the loan of the van, Barry and Glenn from the Blackburn Salvation Army for helping move the furniture today and not forgetting the VIC team. Good luck Paul in your new home, and we will see you next week to finalise things. |
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VIC member Brian McEvoy who lives in Clayton-le-Moors noticed one of the signs needed some TLC. So he cleaned it up and re-painted the lettering. He's done a great job and received some funny looks. They asked whether he worked for the council and were amazed he decided to take this on himself to make the sign more presentable.
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A huge thank you to those that attended and supported our (Bring Your Own) Curry and Quiz night on Friday 26th March. Our fundraising has taken a big hit recently and so your support means the world to us. On the night we raised a total of £140. A special mention to Jo Shakeel for the fabulous Curry, Liz Hamilton and Degs who were worthy winners, and the strongest of all, holding everyone up at the bottom were Darren Horsnell along with Bob Smethurst and Chris. A fabulous night with lots of laughs and fun. See you all on the next one.
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We would like to thank Jo Shakeel for the generous donation of 10 homemade curries for VIC quiz nigh.
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VIC member Brian McEvoy presented a handmade plaque to the team at the COOP in Clayton-le-Moors on the 24th March, his local shop for the support during the COVID pandemic.
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We would like to thank Professional Workwear by Stitchesrus for supplying our latest Hi-Viz vests for the marshalling team at the Rossendale Vaccination Site.
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One of our COVID marshals Bernard Tighe was having too much fun at the COVID vaccination site in Rawtenstall on the 23rd March.
We appreciated that some were going to nervous about their vaccination so to cheer them up he pointed the the way in. |
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It is with profound sadness that we were informed the passing of one of our VIC members Duncan Johnstone, who died at home in Rossendale suddenly aged 38 on Monday the 08th March. Duncan - DJ had served with the Queens Lancashire Regiment for over 9 years and was based at Catterick and completed tours of Iraq and Afghanistan. Duncan's sister has said that the army was his life and his family would've liked a military presence at his funeral. The service was held at Accrington Crematorium on Friday 26th March. There will be a Bugler for the Last Post and the Cortege will be accompanied by a Piper from the Scots Guards with veterans forming a guard of honour.
Stand Down Duncan your duty is done, we will see you again at the Final Re-Org. |
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One of COVID marshals Bernard Tighe was getting known as the strange man behind the bush wearing a Santa hat who stood behind the bush next to the way into the entrance to the vaccination area. We decided that he needed something else to cheer the people going in.
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On the 22nd March Amanda and Amy had the most lovely surprise. We took delivery of a box of flowers with a card giving thanks and appreciation for all of our hard work.
It was a lovely surprise, but we don’t know who to thank as there was no name written in the card. So to whoever sent them, Amy and I would like to say a huge thank you for brightening our day. |
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One of VIC COVID marshals Gary posted this on Facebook and it's worth sharing to show how volunteering on the COVID vaccination rollout has many benefits.
As I have been blessed with the fantastic help from Gill at VIC , I find it totally amazing that the next part of my assistance will be contacting me on Monday morning. To be honest with Gill referring me on Thursday morning, I am wanting to be able to say how much I appreciate the help given, and for such a quick response by the 3rd party, I can honestly say that VIC has given me the best level of support in all the years of volunteering in my time. Many thanks for the help from Gill and the other members who have been involved with me whilst I have been a member of VIC. |
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One of volunteer marshals Catherine Smyth wrote a small piece on the 16th March her experiences of a COVID marshalling on the morning shift. [Read more]
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Our VIC volunteers had a full five days marshalling between the 15th and 20th March at the Rawtenstall vaccination site. I thought it would be good to have an end of week round up.
We had 18 volunteer marshals covering two sets of shifts; Monday to Wednesday 8am to 6pm and Thursday and Friday 8am to 8pm. One of our members on a morning shift counted in excess of 450 cars entering the Hub to either have their vaccination or to use the other services at the medical centre, that could be over 3500 cars passed our marshals. On average they might do do 500 vaccinations throughout the day, over the five days that could be 2500 local people will have either had a their first or second COVID vaccination. By far the majority of people are friendly, appreciative of the hard work of the volunteers and NHS staff delivering the vaccines, respectful and overall have a very positive experience of the process. However unfortunately we have had a very small cohort of people who seem to think they can park where they want, drop off where they want, feel they can verbally abuse our car park marshals or ignore the simple instructions from the marshals. The experience is very well organised and this is only because of the teams on the ground playing their part in the vaccine process. We have have cakes, bacon sandwiches, coffee, biscuits, home made chilli, home made stew dropped off, and even a bit of sun on two of the afternoons. We even had some local sheep drop by to get their jabs but fortunately our highly trained team of VIC shepherd marshals managed to send them away. Good effort Pat McEvoy Jo Shakeel Graham Limb Raymond Sharkey Jacko Pearce Peter RSigs Catherine Smyth Ivy Limbrick Steve Butterworth Gary Horrocks Ron Flowers Philip Chamberlain Barry Payton Bob Smethurst Bernard Tighe Amanda Walton Amy Catherine Thompson So well done all involved and we are there from Monday again. |
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This was a very nice surprise for our marshals on the afternoon shift on the 17th March. Thanks Ninja Coffee Company it is very much appreciated
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On the 12th March Project Worker Ray Sharkey who has been working on the Veterans Should Not be Forgotten programme gave out a tablet for a member of Haslingden Branch of the Royal British Legion.
Amy Thompson Haslingden RBL said. During this last 12 months, there is so many things that our branch has been unable to do, due to the pandemic. However we have still been here, working away in the background. We now need to get our branch meetings back up and running so we can plan for the year ahead. However, not all of us have moved into the digital age, and our Chairman Tony is one of those who didn’t have the capabilities to be able to chair a meeting digitally. Thanks to our close collaborative work with Veterans in Communities, Tony has now been loaned a tablet through their Veterans Should Not Be Forgotten programme, meaning our branch meetings can now recommence! We are so grateful for all the community work they do, and have continued to do amazingly, through these turbulent times. We look forward to continuing to work together with VIC long into the future. |
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On the 3rd March we hade two new VID COVID marshals join us the afternoon shift; Major Bob Smethurst one of our trustees and Ron Flowers. Welcome to the 'Viccination Team'.
One of our other members Simon Peace AKA Wolfgang showed off his new hair colour. He's now known as Simon Ginge Wolfgang Peace |
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This well made multi use storage box has been hand made by one of our members a Brian McEvoy who has designed, built and the exterior design has been done using pyrography.
This storage could be used for many purposes; toys, bedding, general storage or even a small table. Other examples of Brain's work include uniquely designed tables incorporating pyrography in the design. The size of this storage box in 35" long, 17" high and 16" wide. Please call the office on 01706 833180 or email bobelliott@vic.org.uk if you would like more information. |
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The design of the table top have been burnt using pyrography by one of members Brian McEvoy who uses pyrography as a form of therapy.
This is a unique table that has been done by hand. There is no other table like this. Brian started using pyrography 18 months ago and this is his third table. The money raised from this sale goes to the charity that helps and supports those who have served in the Armed Forces. |
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On the 19th February we had a visit from one of oldest members; Harvey Paddy O'Hara. Paddy dropped into the VIC Centre with his grandson Brett.
Paddy served in 4 Commando during WW2 and is the last surviving member of his unit, He was severely wounded during a mortar attack and was casevaced back to the UK where he underwent some ground breaking treatment using Penicillin that saved his life. Catherine Smyth left her friends shopping to come up to the VIC Centre to interview him. REspect Paddy a true hero [Listen to his recording] |
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On the 19th February Ray Sharkey he Project worker for Hyndburn and Ribble Valley handed over a tablet to Harvey 'Paddy' O'Hare as part of the Veterans Should Not Be Forgotten (VSNBF) programme which aims to put digital equipment in the hands of ex service people who do not have any and we provide training on how to use the tablets as well. The equipment and training are to enable veterans to be able to see and speak to friends, family, and ourselves and help them engage in the digital world, all funded by the Armed Forces Covenant D-Day Veteran Harvey O'Hara of 04 Commando receiving his tablet just before seeing his youngest Daughter for the first time since 1994 because she lives in Australia.
[Read the full story] Are you or do you know of a veteran in your local area that would benefit from getting a digital tablet and training as a means to help with isolation, loneliness and general well-being? If so call Ray Sharkey at the VIC Centre 12 Bury Rd Haslingden, BB4 5PL on 01706 833 180 or email raysharkey@vic.org.uk and we can have a chat. |
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Massive thank you to Morrisons champion Heywood Joanne for their very kind donations of gooddie bags. I'm sure the Veterans HMR will be very happy . Thank you to Sarah for all her kind support.
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Another creation from our volunteer Brain McEvoy.
These are £5 each (profits go to VIC). Can make bespoke items due to having approx 30 more hooks. There are only 3 and you'll have to collect (unless you live extremely close to Haslingden or Accrington). The theme for these pieces is "A dog is for life". |
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The VIC marshalling team were donated cakes and biscuits from Laura Saxton the Community Champion at ASDA in Rawtenstall.
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It was a wet and windy start to this morning's marshalling on the 18th February at the Rawtenstall Hub PCN Vaccination Centre for our dedicated A Team of VIC volunteers. It was a lot warmer than it has been recently but torrential rain is still not pleasant and the willingness of all the staff and volunteers to brave the elements come what may is truly inspiring. One of the dedicated VIC outdoor marshal's not only turned up for duty this morning and fulfilled her role helping people to get their Vaccine but in between found the time to litter pick the area of all rubbish and do the 'Outside Areas' (Military term) you know who you are Catherine Smyth Media.
As well as the VIC volunteers Graham Limb, Phil Speddy, Peter Shinzil, Jacko Pearce, Ivy Limbrick and Positive Start's Jo Shakeel, we are also assisted with the external marshalling by a number of independent volunteers who like the VIC are not afraid of a bit of valley weather. A big thank you must also be extended to all the internal volunteers and NHS staff who very effectively and efficiently guide people through the process and administer the Covid-19 vaccine. We salute you all. |
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We would like to say a massive thank you to Craig at
Co-op Community: Haslingden, Waterfoot & Whitworth for the fantastic donation of coffee, tea and biscuits and goodies on the 18th February for the VIC and other volunteers marshalling We would also like to say thank Sam Smith who always does so much for the VIC and local community. |
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I thought this feedback is sharing from an email we received on the 16th February Outstanding effort by our marshals and special mention to our resident Santa Bernard Tighe
Morning Bob / Amanda Thought that you might be interested in the message trail below that has filtered down to me from NHS England then CCG and mentions Father Christmas – wonder who that could be! Please feel free to share with the team. Thanks for all your help. Regards Andy Good Morning, I have received this patient feedback regarding their experience of having a vaccine at the Rossendale hub. Excellent patient experience, well done to everyone involved in the service. Could you please pass this on. Many thanks Kathryn Good evening ladies, I have been asked to pass on the following feedback from a patient that visited the Rossendale site last week; Further to our telephone conversation please find below my experience when I went for a COVID vaccination. I was greeted by a very jovial gentleman wearing a Father Christmas hat, who escorted me to the reception area. The whole process was extremely slick, well organised and full of smiles and laughter, it took approximately 10 minutes. (The time frame would have been shorter only I did cause some confusion during the temperature taking process as 4 of the scanners failed to work on me and this was approached with humour) I would be grateful if you would pass on a very big thank you to all the volunteers and staff at the Rossendale site, for the warm smiley welcome and for doing such a fantastic job (especially those volunteers on outside duties, It was so bitterly cold) Well done to all concerned |
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We heard some sad news at the beginning of February of the passing of one of volunteer marshals husband Miles.
He has been ill for some time and we send our condolences to the Brian and Pat. RIP Miles |
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After another early morning start on the 10th February, a wee bit chilly.... -5 Degree at the Rossendale PCN Hub Vaccination Centre, things began to look up because although it was extremely cold we were very thankful that it did not snow or rain on us for the first time in weeks. All the staff and volunteers are really going for gold, every one involved has become extremely good at their own individual drills that ensure that people coming for their Vaccine are guided through the process and do not have to wait in line and get cold. (One lady pulled on to the car park, went for her 'Jab' and was back out and in her daughters car within 4 minutes - 4 minutes!!!) Unbelievable teamwork.
Wolfgang (AKA Simon Peace) was back on top welfare form cooking up Bratwurst and curry sauce for breakfast as well as hot chocolates. A very kind and generous VIC member Linda Field baked up a box of delicious muffins for the staff and volunteers which went down a storm, and Positive Starts Jo Shakeel (Vaccine Volunteer) accompanied her parents for their vaccine and brought everyone a box of Krusty Kreem doughnuts to say thank you Yum. |
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Another good day at the Rossendale COVID vaccine site on the 29th January. Thanks Raymond Sharkey Ivy Limbrick Pat McEvoy Jacko Pearce Graham Limb Bernard Tighe and we had four new volunteers join the VIC marshalling team for the first shifts Catherine Smyth Darren Veevers Amanda Walton and Phil Spedding.
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At the end of January we presented Carol Duckworth, the winner of the photographic category in Veterans Art Competition. Darren Horsnell framed and mounted her winning photograph. An outstanding picture.
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It's been a good start to the year with getting our members to meet using Zoom.
The Sandbag Cafe members have met three times. The Railway Club members have met twice. The Burnley and Pendle members have met twice. This has been quite challenging to get some of them to get familiar using Zoom and all have done really well. Each week the groups will grow and you can see how much they have missed seeing each other. |
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We would like to thank Asda Rawtenstall
for supporting us once again. Laura the Community Champion put together a box of goodies for our marshals who are out supporting the Rossendale Vaccination Site on Friday, Saturday, Monday and Tuesday. It's very much appreciated. |
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On the 21st and 22nd January over 1000 elderly people were vaccinated at the Rossendale Vaccination Site. This wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding effort by the vaccination team, NHS staff and volunteers.
We had a team of our volunteers doing the car park marshalling over these two days in some of the worst weather so far this year. They start vaccinating again on Friday 29th January over five days and we’ll have a team again. It is very rewarding to see so many of our older population getting their vaccine, one we spoke to hadn’t left his house since last February. If you’re interested in joining our car park marshalling team, call the office on 01706 833180. |
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We had a special delivery of some VIC Hi Viz vests on the 20th January for our volunteers who are working at the Rawtenstall Vaccine Site.
Mo hand delivered these as he knew they were urgent. Mo Howe runs UK Forces Direct in Worksop. Outstanding service cheers Mo |
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On the 19the 19th January six of volunteers started an online volunteer training course delivered by Lancashire Adult Learning.
The course runs over 8 weeks and covers a numbers of modules.
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I thought I'd share this with the volunteers who are helping on the marshalling for COVID Vaccination Sites.
We were approached by the Rossendale Primary Care Network as to whether we could provide some car park marshals for the Rossendale Vaccination Site in Rawtenstall. We had already a small team we deployed between Xmas and New Year at the Rawtenstall site and the Acorn Centre site in Hyndburn. We felt that we as a charity that gets funding and the support from the East Lancashire CCG and our unique set of skills would be suited for this task. We will continue to support the vaccination programme in Rawtenstall and the Acorn Centre. |
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Thanks to four of our volunteers Phil, Shep, Pat and Jacko for marshalling at the Rossendale Vaccine Centre on Friday 8th January. It was cold and they did an outstanding job, it was mad busy and they had a few IT problems and this caused a knock on effect.
If you want to cover a shift with us please let us know so we can organise ourselves, I'll have more information over the coming weeks as to the next days the vaccination site is opening. |
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This table has been upcycled by Brian over the Xmas period. Brian uses the art of pyrography to produce bespoke pieces of furniture by burning images into wood. This is therapy for Brian and helps with his mental health. All proceeds from the sale of the table will go to the Veterans In Communities. For more information please contact the VIC Centre on 01706 833180 or email bobelliott@vic.org.uk The table's approximate sizes are 60cm wide, 90cm long and 45cm high.
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