2017-09-02 Julian Olver rides 205 miles over 3 days in SSAFA's 'Ride to the Somme'.

Post date: Sep 09, 2017 8:37:39 AM

Julian Olver, club regular, writes: "I've always admired SSAFA's work with our Armed Forces, especially after completing four operational tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. In April this year I was asked to take on the role of Chairman of the NW London Branch of SSAFA and this moved me to join the Ride to the Somme to raise funds. Below is one soldier's story which typifies the work that SSAFA does. Louis served with the parachute regiment, completing two tours of Iraq and Afghanistan. While on patrol in in Helmand he was injured by a grenade and his leg was badly damaged, later being amputated. After he was medically discharged SSAFA were there to help Louis retrain as an electrician as well as making sure his house was fully accessible to him. In 2015 SSAFA helped over 60,000 people like Louis - by raising funds for SSAFA I am helping them to be there for even more veterans, reservists, serving personnel and their families."