THE Lions club of Holsworthy presented a cheque for £100 to Bude Surf Veterans (BSV) on Saturday, March 23.

BSV is a volunteer group that assist military veterans with physical and/or mental health issues through the activity of surfing. It is not always a ‘magic bullet’, however for some individuals surfing and sharing time with like-minded individuals can be life-saving, and be a significantly important factor in their recovery.

It is also an opportunity for veterans to socialise, surf and support one another in an informal and friendly setting, without judgement or questioning. Integration back into civilian life is often a challenge for veterans. BSV, with its focus on the surfing experience, gives veterans the activity and excitement that creates well-being and re-engagement with the non-military world.

BSV is also involved with Help for Heroes and the Endeavor Fund which help Wounded, Injured or Sick (WIS) service personnel and veterans with the annual ‘Operation Surf’, which is a week long course that takes place in Bude, where beneficiaries take part and learn how to surf. This is now progressing with the ability for BSV members and previous Operation Surf beneficiaries to become qualified surf instructors to then instruct on future Operation Surfs.

BSV along with Operation Surf enables veterans to help veterans with their recovery and transition back into civilian life.

BSV expressed their thanks to Holsworthy Lions for their kind donation.