WORK is progressing to deliver a new hub providing advice and support for armed forces veterans in Christchurch and the wider area.

Committee members of Christchurch branch of the Royal British Legion are working to deliver the service, using the first floor of their Bargates building as a base.

The Royal British Legion club in the town closed in 2017, however the branch still own the premises and will continue to rent out the ballroom on the upper floor for private functions.

Negotiations are ongoing with a private business, with a view to leasing out the ground floor.

It is hoped the hub will be in place within the next 12 months.

Nick Williams, Christchurch branch of the Royal British Legion community support officer, said: “We are looking at revitalising the Royal British Legion within Christchurch.

“Financially, Christchurch branch of the Royal British Legion branch is in a very good place.

“We are planning on enhancing the fabric of the building, which needs a bit of work but we are in the process of refurbishing it.

“Our vision is to turn the upstairs of the building into a veterans’ hub for the Christchurch and Bournemouth area. It would be a welcoming place for veterans.

“We want to make the first floor fit for purpose to serve refreshments as part of the hub.

“The whole thing is about linking the different veterans’ charities together and having the support, advice and help within Christchurch for all our local veterans, so they know if they need it, it is there for them.

“As a branch we plan on becoming more visual within Christchurch in the next 12 months.”

The branch oversees the Poppy Appeal in the town, which last year raised more than £17,500.

Plans are taking shape for initiatives in the summer, such as performances from the Christchurch Royal Legion Band at various events.

Investment has already started on the Royal British Legion building, including new CCTV cameras and security lighting.

Mr Williams, who served in the Falklands War, added: “There are a lot of charities doing very good work but some people who really need the help sometimes fall through the gaps.

“The rate of suicide among veterans is increasing. One of the big problems that veterans face is PTSD and sometimes it does not materialise for 25 years.

“I know there are people I served with who are having a difficult time and the work of Royal British Legion is becoming more important.”