Erskine Veterans Charity was delighted to celebrate the first anniversary of the opening of its Forres-based Activity Centre, EVAC North, with a birthday party attended by almost 100 members.
Staff and volunteers originally organised the party for the previous week; however, due to adverse weather, the event was delayed.
The get-together more than made up for lost time and, as anyone at EVAC North will tell you, no celebration is complete without cake.
The centre’s team ensured there was plenty to keep everyone smiling, with staff organising fun and games throughout the day with plenty of friendly competition.
David Grant, Centre Manager at EVAC North, said, “Reaching our first anniversary is a huge milestone for EVAC North. Over the past year, we’ve built something genuinely special, a welcoming place for over 600 veterans where they can feel part of a community, take part in activities, and know there’s always someone to talk to. Seeing nearly 100 people come together, even after the weather forced us to postpone, says everything about what this centre means to our members.”
Shaun Moat, Chair of the Members Committee, added, “The centre has become a real lifeline for so many of us. Today was about celebrating a year of friendships, laughs, and the support we have shared. EVAC North is all about the people, our members, staff, and volunteers.”
EVAC North offers essential resources, peer support, and tailored wellbeing programmes designed to address the unique challenges faced by veterans. The centre provides a welcoming environment where veterans of all ages can connect with one another, learn new skills, and find renewed purpose in their lives after service.