YOUR VETERAN
VETERANS In Communities (VIC) was established in 2012 to provide support to the service family, including ex-armed forces and ‘blue light’ services and their families to integrate back into civilian life.
Darren Horsnell.
What do you do?:
I am a volunteer at VIC and the arts and crafts co-ordinator. I’m 56 years old and served 11 years in the Royal Artillery, joining up at 15 years of age.
How did you join VIC?:
While I was undergoing counselling from Combat Stress several years ago, I was introduced to art therapy and on realising the benefits of it, was introduced to VIC. I hold art classes at VIC every Tuesday and Friday between 10.30am – 3.30pm.
What do you enjoy the most about doing this?:
I enjoy helping other veterans and the camaraderie.
Any highlights while doing this?:
I enjoy seeing the faces of the veterans when their art work is exhibited and appreciated. Exhibitions planned for the future will take place at Churchfields House, Great Harwood; the Civic Arts Centre, Oswaldtwistle; and Haworth Art Gallery, Accrington.
Where is your favourite place in Accrington?:
KFC.
Who is your biggest inspiration?:
Dave Shepherd – wildlife artist/ conservationist.
If you could give one bit of advice, what would it be?:
The one piece of advice I would give to veterans is “Don’t suffer in silence. VIC are only a phone call away.”
VIC will have an information stand in Accrington Market Hall every Monday between 1pm and 3pm, at the bottom of the main stairs. For more information about VIC, visit www.vic.org.uk/ contact-us.html or telephone 01706 833180 or email info@vic.org.uk