AN Army regiment is supporting one of its former soldiers from Little Budworth, near Winsford, in his aim to build a respite and rejuvenation centre for military veterans.

The Sanctuary for Veterans charity was established by Joe O’Connor after he had overcome difficulties he faced as he rebuilt his life after leaving the army having been involved in a life-changing accident during training.

The 101 Engineer Regiment has nominated Sanctuary for Veterans as its charity at this year’s regimental ball which is being held in London on October 18. Joe was a member of the regiment from 1993 before moving to the SAS six years later.

Joe is raising funds to build an education centre and 23 lodges at Little Budworth which will enable Sanctuary for Veterans to help former military personnel, and their families, overcome the physical and mental challenges that being injured can cause as they try to make the transition to a civilian life.

Joe said: “I was delighted when I was contacted a couple of months later to say that they would like to make us the nominated charity.

"It reinforces the belief that we have with Sanctuary for Veterans in that when you have served in the forces you are part of a wider family that supports each other in times of need.”