The first half of this week’s show had a distinct military feel with Chris Morgan from the Veterans Community and Enterprise Centre. Mark Appleby, an army veteran who has been on the show a number of times, and Phil Grainger of the RAF, who opened the show for us with a discussion on his duties and responsibilities as a serving volunteer with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Set up by Royal Charter in 1917 the CWGC are responsible for the monitoring and maintenance of the grave stones in 153 countries, of 1.7 million servicemen and women worldwide who lost their lives in two world wars.
Chris and Mark provided a real insight into the challenges facing military personnel making the transition back into civilian life, from what is a very structured and regimental way of life, with skills and training that aren’t necessarily applicable or needed in civilian way of life. This highlighted the vital role voluntary organisations like the Veterans Community and Enterprise Centre play in easing the stresses of the transition process while providing guidance, support and signposting to other relevant service providers available to ex service personnel.
The second half of the show was a testament to the commitment and dedication of some of our junior athletes and their desire and determination to represent their town and Great Britain at the ‘Festival del Sole’ in Italy in 2025. The Athena Sports Academy’s Senior Display Team ‘Akrovasia’ has the opportunity to take part and represent their country in the biggest international gymnastics event in southern europe, with thousands of athletes from all over the world taking part.
As a way of raising awareness and the finances to cover the costs involved for each of the young athletes to make the dream a reality, members of the Athena Sports Academy will be taking part in a sponsored 12 mile walk on Saturday 9th November. If you would like further information on the sponsored walk, or how you could help make these dedicated young athletes dream a reality, please contact their dedicated fundraising team on athenasportsacademy@gmail.com
Phill & Andy, Around Town, Aycliffe Radio.
