A Rhuddlan man who served with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) for 25 years travelled to London this month to attend a special event hosted by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Johnny Mercer MP.
Charles Porter, known locally as Bill Porter, was invited by Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies to attend the Local Veterans Champions reception at 10 Downing Street.
The event was a heartfelt tribute to the countless volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time and effort to support local veterans.
James chose to invite Bill in recognition of all the work he does for veterans in the local area.
Speaking after the event, James said:
“I was extremely pleased and proud to nominate Bill as a Local Veterans Champion at Downing Street.
“Bill served with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers for 25 years. He set up a weekly drop in session in Rhyl in conjunction with Woody’s Lodge, offering a safe space for veterans.
"It is open every Tuesday from 10am until midday at the Salvation Army on Windsor Street, Rhyl, and is the busiest Woody's Lodge hub, with around 20 to 30 people attending each week. They also arrange for other activities throughout the week when they have funding.
“Bill also raises money for veteran charities, recently completing the Manchester Marathon.
“He is well respected in the local community and it was great to welcome him to Parliament before the reception to hear more about his experiences serving in the REME - and for a quick tour.
“We are extremely fortunate to have so many volunteers in our communities dedicated to supporting our veterans and their families and the reception was an excellent opportunity to applaud them all.”
Bill said:
"It was a real honour to be invited to attend this reception at Number 10, and I was also delighted to have a tour of Westminster, which was fascinating.
"It was an absolute pleasure to meet James and the Minister Johnny Mercer MP.
"The whole day was an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
