Plea to send struggling veterans Christmas messages

Ian Hewitt said the messages "show that people out there care"

An RAF veteran has urged people to send messages of hope to veterans struggling with physical and mental challenges this Christmas.

Thousands of people sent messages to isolated veterans last December, as part of a campaign by Armed Forces charity Help for Heroes.

The charity said for some it was the only card they received and for others the "small acts of kindness" encouraged them to reach out for life-changing support.

Ian Hewitt, from Lytham St Annes, in Lancashire, said Christmas could become a time filled with dread rather than a celebration but the cards "show that people out there care".

The 46-year-old, who is originally from Preston, was medically discharged after five years’ service due to a spinal injury.

He said he understood how some of his fellow veterans would be feeling.

"During military service, service men and women have a strong support network and a close-knit community, but transitioning to civilian life can destroy that.

"Coupled with physical and mental health issues, which can prevent them from socialising, Christmas can become a time filled with dread rather than a celebration," he said.

"I know from last year that receiving messages from Help for Heroes supporters made a massive difference to some people and showed there are people out there who care."

He added: "It also encouraged veterans to come forward and get support."