Shaun Davies MP for Telford has presented special letters of recognition from the Secretary of State for Defence, The Rt Hon John Healey MP, to three Telford residents and organisations ahead of Christmas.

The letters were presented yesterday to Walter Bethall from Dawley, all those at The Chris Turley Armed Forces Hub and also D Squadron, Royal Yeomanry Cadets in Dawley Bank; in recognition of their dedication and long-standing support to the Armed Forces community in Telford.

Walter Bethell a local veteran and President of the Royal British Legion Dawley branch was recognised for a the role is has played in leading the Remembrance Parade, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to veterans, serving personnel, and remembrance activities across the local community.

The Chris Turley Armed Forces Hub team were recognised for the exemplary support, services and advice they offer to the local veteran community and also as a tribute to Councillor Chris Turley, who was an incredible voice for the Armed Forces community during his time as a Councillor in Telford & Wrekin.

Finally, D Squadron, Royal Yeomanry Cadets at Dawley Bank are recognised for their work in supporting the youngest members of the Armed Forces community across Telford and the wider Shropshire area. Special thanks were extended to Lance Corporal Jay Lewis, who laid a wreath on behalf of Shaun on Remembrance Day.

Walter Bethall said: “Many thanks to Shaun for organising this special Christmas recognition — it’s truly appreciated, especially at this time of year, and made even more meaningful by supporting the important work of the Royal British Legion and the local armed forces and veterans community here in Telford.”

Shaun added: “I am delighted that Walter, the Cadets, and the team at the Christopher Turley Veteran Hub have been personally recognised and thanked by the UK Defence Secretary, John Healey, following my nominations. These three nominations truly highlight the broad range of activities taking place here in Telford, reflecting both our long-standing and future contributions to UK defence. I know this national recognition means a great deal to them, and I would like to add my own personal thanks as well.”

The Government has made a number of steps to better support veterans, including £50m investment in Operation Valour, a pledge to fully enshrine the Armed Forces Covenant into law, the appointment of the UK’s first Independent Armed Forces Commissioner, the biggest pay rise for service personnel for two decades, an additional £12 million uplift to support the Reducing Veteran, Homelessness Programme, and a landmark £9bn plan to renew military housing, and support for the LGBT Veterans Financial Recognition Scheme.

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