John Baron MP speaks at C-BEST launch

Patron MP congratulates C-BEST on becoming a HMRC registered charity  

Today John Baron MP spoke at the launch of Combined-Basildon, Essex Supporting Troops [C-BEST] at Woodlands Sports and Social Club in Basildon. C-BEST has now received status as a HMRC registered charitable company and invited John to become patron. The group aims to provide support when it comes to combat stress for local troops and their families. With the help of a local proprietor [who has kindly donated the use of his facilities] C-BEST is able to offer a drop in cafe venue for troops and families.

John said:

“Congratulations to the whole team at C-BEST on attaining HMRC registered charity status. C-BEST provides support for troops and their families, particularly when it comes to tackling combat stress. This work is important. Following the Falklands War, figures suggest more troops committed suicide than were killed during the conflict itself. C-BEST will offer a hand of friendship, advice and support to those who need it.”

“Our thanks also go to Woodlands Sports and Social Club for donating the use of their premises and to Selex Galileo UK for sponsoring the launch. C-BEST will also be joining us for our Fun Walk this year.”

• John is an ex-soldier, having served with the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in Berlin and Northern Ireland as a platoon commander, and then as a Captain with the United Nations in Cyprus, before finishing in Germany as the Battalion Operations Officer. He saw the effects of combat stress particularly on tour in Northern Ireland.
• The group also raise funds for associated charities such as Combat Stress, Royal Centre for Defence Medicine [Selly Oak] and SSAFA who are directly dealing with the after effects of service in Afghanistan.