REMEMBRANCE: Continue help for servicemen

As the day that will mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War draws near, it is time not only to reflect upon the sacrifices made by so many and the struggle that the nation, communities and families faced to rebuild after such devastation but also on the continuing debt we owe to our servicemen and women who are still all too frequently put into harm's way.

We must not forget that the families also shoulder the often hidden burdens of separation, anxiety and, in some cases, bereavement.

SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity, is the only tri-service charity that was there in 1918 and is still here today supporting servicemen and women, veterans and, especially, their families.

This centennial anniversary is a national landmark and one that will, hopefully, cause people to pause and think about what they can do to repay the debt we all owe to those who have served and are still serving. SSAFA Northumberland is staffed entirely by volunteers and offers a warm welcome to new volunteers.

Tim Willbond,

SSAFA Northumberland