The Not Forgotten a British Armed Forces charity for serving and ex-military personnel recently hosted a carp fishing respite holiday for former servicemen at Woodlay Fishing Lakes in Herdodsfoot, Liskeard.
The peaceful and picturesque lakes provided the perfect backdrop for the three-day fishing event and an opportunity for the veterans, many of whom are suffering from PTSD to relax, share their experiences, form new friendships and bond over some healthy competitive fishing in a safe environment.
The Not Forgotten was founded to provide entertainment and recreation, including social activities and challenge holidays, for wounded service personnel and injured veterans. The carp fishing event in Cornwall is just one of the popular events the charity organises throughout the year.
Veterans from the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines and RAF who served in conflicts including the Falklands and Gulf War spent the days fishing and the evenings socialising, with some healthy competitive banter and a story or two about the days catch.
Brigadier James Stopford, CBE, CEO of The Not Forgotten tells us:
“This respite trip is particularly important, as for the first time some of the veterans’ partners were in attendance.
“Our trips are all about comradeship and support and this event helps to ensure veterans partners, who provide invaluable ongoing support to those who have suffered physical injuries or are experiencing mental health issues – are not forgotten.
“The event enabled them to unwind together and have a bit of fun and respite, regain some balance and share experiences in the company of like-minded individuals.
“All the men said they felt more confident and relaxed following the trip with one veteran commenting it’s the first time he’s slept past 7.00am in a very long time. The trip really helped with their wellbeing and it was a fantastic opportunity for them to feel connected again after being in lockdown for so long.”
