The Veterans’ Minister Johnny Mercer visited Darlington yesterday (20.04.2023) where he met volunteers and local veterans.
The Rt Hon Johnny Mercer MP joined Peter Gibson, MP for Darlington at The Viking Boat Company (Plane Sailing) on Albert Hill in the town, where they toured the workshop and gained an insight into the work being undertaken to support local veterans.
The Minister also got hands on, and saw first-hand the progress being made on a replica Viking boat.
Bob Marshall, CEO of The Viking Boat Company led a discussion with veterans, staff and volunteers about the benefits charity provides for veterans, and their future ambitions.
The Minister also met a number of local veterans and veterans’ charities based in Darlington during a lunch hosted at veteran owned business, CuriosiTeas Café in the Queen Street Shopping Centre, owned by Richard and Aimee Bland.
Veterans’ Minister, Johnny Mercer Said “Darlington’s a great place, where the sun is shining, and the people are great. It has been fantastic to meet so many local people, there is such good work going on locally to support the veterans’ community.
“It has been a good day meeting the team at the Viking Boat Company and seeing the great work they do. I’m very much looking forward to seeing the finished Viking boat!”
Peter Gibson said “The Viking Boat Company do a great job in supporting veterans, it has been fantastic to show the Veterans’ Minister the positive impact of their work. Bob and the team are a credit to the town, and I look forward to visiting again very soon.”
Picture caption: Veterans’ Minister with the team at The Viking Boat Company
