Positive mindset when we need it most

AS an Army Physical Training Corps instructor, Dean Hammond is used to putting squaddies through their paces, but throughout lockdown the Aldershot father-of-two extended his support to civilians too.

Dean, 33, who’s currently based with the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards

Infantry Regiment, posted well-being tips on his Instagram page. The response was overwhelming, with followers rising from 200 to 2,500.

“I’m not a mental health professional, but I thought I could give steps to help physical wellbeing and mindset,” says Dean.

“It’s a difficult time. I lost two friends who took their own lives, so I wanted to help anyone who needed that support.”

Dale Askew, who nominated him, says: “Dean’s used social media in a really positive way. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of the award.”