I set myself the challenge of kayaking the entire coastline and estuaries of Suffolk during 2024 in memory of ex Royal Marine Gregg Packham. Gregg served his country well, but was discharged from the marines suffering with PTSD. Sadly, Gregg never really recovered and passed away in 2023.

While welfare support to veterans and their families is getting better, it is an area that needs more attention. Gregg's story demonstrates just how easy it is for struggling veterans to slip through the net.

I also want to raise some much needed funds for two local groups who directly support armed forces veterans and their families across Suffolk.

The first is the Suffolk RBL County Committee. This committee is made up of volunteers who support the excellent work of the 48 individual RBL branches across the county. The committee have no permanent base and receive no official funding and so monies raised will help to cover their admin costs.

The second is Ipswich based Combat2Coffee who provide safe, non-judgmental places for veterans and ex-uniformed service personnel struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. Funds raised will go directly to support the outreach service that they provide.

Thank you for your support