Heywood veterans’ charity honoured as finalist at prestigious awards

Founder of Veterans into Logistics, Darren Wright, with general manager John Harker MBE

Heywood-based charity, Veterans into Logistics, has been recognised as a finalist in three categories at this year’s esteemed English Veterans Awards.

The charity, which provides crucial support to ex-servicemen and women, is nominated for Employer of the Year, while its general manager, John Harker MBE, and its founder, Darren Wright, are also up for individual honours.

The charity has earned national recognition for its work in offering free HGV driver training to hundreds of military veterans and service leavers. Through partnerships with major companies, including Asda, Mϋller UK & Ireland, and Stobart, Veterans into Logistics helps veterans transition into careers in the logistics sector.

Darren Wright, a former Royal Artillery Airborne Gunner from Middleton, has been nominated for the Inspiration of the Year award. He founded the charity in memory of his friend, Jamie Doyle, who served 22 years in the British Army. Jamie’s mother, Jayne Allen, expressed her gratitude towards Wright. She said: "Six years ago, I received the most traumatic news that my son, Jamie Doyle, had died at home.

"Jamie served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and my main concern was always that he returned home safely. I have never been the same since that awful day.

"When Darren told me of his plans for Veterans into Logistics and that his first truck would be in memory of Jamie, I was so moved by his thoughtfulness."

She added: "Darren inspires veterans by giving them hope, resilience, and a vital step into employment and civilian life. He deserves this recognition for everything he does."

John Harker MBE, a former British Army Major, is nominated for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Commenting on the charity's success, he said: "Veterans into Logistics, myself, and Darren are honoured to be recognised at the English Veterans Awards. There are some tremendous finalists in our categories, and we’re delighted to be in such good company."

The English Veterans Awards celebrate veterans who have successfully transitioned to civilian life and excelled in their fields, serving as role models for future service leavers. Winners will be announced at a ceremony on 23 October at De Vere Wokefield in Reading.

For more information about Veterans into Logistics, visit: www.veteransintologistics.org.uk