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Minister of state for veteran’s affairs John Mercer visits Thatcham




MP, minister of state for veteran’s affairs and former British Army officer Johnny Mercer visited Thatcham last week.

He joined Newbury MP Laura Farris in meeting with veterans and representatives of charities that support the armed forces.

Minister of state for veteran’s affairs John Mercer in Thatcham
Minister of state for veteran’s affairs John Mercer in Thatcham

He spoke about his career in the army including his three tours of duty in Afghanistan, and explained how his commitment to servicemen and women had led him into politics, and the work he had done to establish and lead the Office for Veterans Affairs.

He said: “I was delighted to be invited by Laura to spend an afternoon listening to the inspiring stories and experiences of veterans in her constituency.

Newbury MP Laura Farris with MP with John Mercer
Newbury MP Laura Farris with MP with John Mercer

“It was great to see first-hand the superb work that Laura is doing to champion the ex-servicemen and women of Newbury, and I look forward to continue working closely with her as we make this country the best place in the world to be a veteran.”

In attendance were representatives of Newbury and Thatcham Veterans’ Breakfast Club, the Newbury, Hungerford and Lambourn branches of the Royal British Legion, the Royal Artillery and SSAFA.

Minister John Mercer with Lynne Doherty and Barry Dickens from SSAFA
Minister John Mercer with Lynne Doherty and Barry Dickens from SSAFA

Joining them were Supporting Wounded Veterans, Models for Heroes, Mission Motorsport, Career Force, 77th Brigade at Hermitage Barracks, AWE veterans and reservists, and the RAF Association.

Mrs Farris said: “It was a huge honour to welcome Johnny to Thatcham and introduce him to a large group of veterans from West Berkshire from right across the armed forces – from those who had left decades ago to those who had served alongside him.

Laura talks to veterans
Laura talks to veterans

“They candidly shared their experiences with him, and I know he will carefully consider their views as he continues developing policies on housing, mental health and much more”.



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