HURT FOR HEROES
FURY AS VANDALS TARGET VETERANS CHARITY
SICK vandals smashed a large stone through the window of a charity van which provides a lifeline to armed forces veterans.
The Coming Home Centre van – which is clearly marked with the charity’s details – was targeted while it was parked on Cullen Street, Shettleston, sometime between after 5pm on Sunday and 7.45am yesterday.
All that was taken were a pair of safety glasses – leaving those who work for the charity, which is based at the Pearce Institute in Govan, baffled over the mindless thuggery.
Volunteer Tommy Addison said: “I use the van for going out and visiting veterans who can’t come to the centre because of mental health issues.
“We do need the van, it is a lifeline. Some people have no respect.”
The charity has two vans which allows them to carry out their important work within the community.
Founded in 2010, the Coming Home Centre has helped hundreds of Scottish armed forces veterans by providing them with help and support.
The charity’s Govan base also allows veterans to socialise.
Ian Hopkins, who is operations manager at the charity, said: “I am furious because we have two vans which we worked very hard for to get on the road.
“We are always shifting people about and moving houses.
“It is a nightmare when one of the vans is off the road.
“It’s one of these things that you cannot comprehend.”
Luckily for the charity, a former marine, who wishes to remain anonymous, has stepped in to cover the cost of the damage.
The charity also benefits from the services of AK Vehicle Rentals in Paisley who have supported them in the past.
The incident was reported to Police Scotland who have confirmed that they are investigating.
Anyone with information is asked to contact officers using the 101 number.