A TEAM of Army recruitment officers have raised more than £550 for Blind Veterans UK, the national charity for vision-impaired ex-servicemen and women, by walking in pairs and sight guiding each other for nine miles.

The employees from the Capita Army Recruitment Partnership, who work in Bangor, Shrewsbury, Wrexham and Chester, came together at the Blind Veterans UK’s Centre of Wellbeing in Llandudno at the start of July to complete their summer challenge in which they support a charity.

The group set off from the centre at 10am and were sent on their way by the sound of “Charge” being played by blind veteran Billy Baxter on his bugle. 

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During the walk, the group were in pairs with one person blindfolded and the other sight guiding them along the course to give them some insight into the day-to-day challenges faced by the charity’s blind veterans.

Paul Hughes, lead recruiter for the Bangor Army recruitment office, said: “We have all known a colleague that has been injured while in service which is why it’s vitally important to us to support veterans and their families in recognition of their service to the country.

“During the walk, we took it in turns to be blindfolded. I initially felt incredibly vulnerable whilst I was being guided, but as my trust grew in my guide, so did my confidence.”

The group walked a circular route around the town before returning to the centre at 3.30pm.

They were then given a tour of the centre’s facilities which blind veterans have access to during their stays.

Paul said: “We were totally inspired by the veterans that we met, their spirit, courage and resilience was inspirational, and the staff were so friendly, welcoming, and supportive.

“We select a charity each year and complete a summer challenge but our visit to Blind Veterans UK made such an impact on us that we are now looking at ways in which we can continue to support the charity in the future.”

Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans across the country, but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.