Graham Stuart, Member of Parliament for Beverley and Holderness, returned to Withernsea Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club last weekend with South East Holderness Councillors Lyn Healing and Sean McMaster in advance of Remembrance Sunday.
Withernsea Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club was founded in 2021 as an opportunity for veterans and service members from all branches of the armed forces, including reservists, to join others for a ‘Butty, Brew and Banter’. Over 50 people attend the breakfast club which meets on the first and third Saturdays of each month. It is a place where people can socialise, have a tasty breakfast and receive support with any problems they may have for a suggested donation of £1.50.
While enjoying a delicious bacon butty, Graham spoke to several people about their time protecting our country and how he can support them now. One gentleman he spoke to was involved in the construction of the Buccaneer aircraft in 1957, which flew at 670 mph and was used in conflicts including the Gulf War. Others were keen to speak to Graham about a range of issues from activities in Withernsea to his ongoing campaign to stop the Government removing the Winter Fuel Payment they rely on to keep warm.
Graham also had the opportunity to catch up with the brilliant Darren England, who founded the club three years ago. Graham was pleased to see that the veterans’ community was continuing to thrive since his last visit in March, when Graham presented Darren with a Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister. The Club is proving so popular and members so eager to attend that they are having to open their door earlier and earlier to let them all in.
Councillors Sean McMaster and Lyn Healing said: “Darren, Sam and the team of volunteers do such a brilliant job holding the meets. The numbers of veterans and others has grown enormously over a short period of time who all come together for a butty, brew and banter and a lot of inter service teasing goes on with laughter and camaraderie. It's wonderful to see so many people coming together, long may it continue.”
Darren England, founder of the Withernsea Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club, commented: “Saturday was another great get together of veterans who braved the rain for some laughs over a warm brew. I’m really pleased Graham, Lyn and Sean could join us again; they are friends of the club and are welcome back any time.”
Graham Stuart said: “I’ll always stand up for our veterans and enjoy hearing about their experiences at any chance I get. That’s why I was so pleased to return to Withernsea Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club to catch up with many of the members in advance of Remembrance Sunday. Despite the relentless rain, over 50 people braved the elements to enjoy a butty and brew with other members of this very important community. Their eagerness to come along whatever the weather is testament to the brilliant club that Darren and his dedicated team of volunteers has created. They are the best of us.”
If you would like to find out more about Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Clubs, visit: www.afvbc.com
