EX-FORCES veterans were invited on a special visit to a local army barracks to meet with current serving officers.

Members from Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington Ex-Forces Support Group were invited to Gaza Barracks, Catterick Garrison, by Garrison Sergeant Major, WO1 Leon Reeves for 'Tea and Toast'.

They were treated to a demonstration of battlefield medicine by members of the 5th Armoured Medical Regiment and were shown around the latest vehicles used for transporting patients on the modern battlefield.

The veterans said they were impressed with the abilities of the latest “kit” available to the modern soldier compared to the equipment that they were issued when they served.

Sgt Maj Leon Reeves said, “I first came into contact with the Ex-Forces group through a friend of my wife and when I found out about the work they do with veterans I was really keen to get involved.

"I visited their café and joined them for tea and cake and I really wanted to return the favour and have them join us in the Sergeants mess for tea and toast.

"It’s been a really good morning and the serving soldiers have also enjoyed meeting the veterans.”

For information about the support group see ageuknyd.org.uk