Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North sees manager retiral, trip to Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory and donation from Forres Fire Station

Members of a wellbeing respite for veterans have paid tribute to a retiring manager, taken part in their first group excursion and accepted a three figure donation in recent weeks.

Since it opened last December, Erskine Veterans Activity Centre North’s (EVACN) 500 members have created a community at the former Victoria Hotel on Tytler Street - open Monday to Friday to former service personnel.

An emotional farewell was given to regional manager, Debs Dickson, last Friday, “whose vision and dedication shaped the centre”.

Members committee chairman, Shaun Moat, delivered a heartfelt speech before inviting her to unveil a plaque dedicated to her lasting impact on the Forres and Bishopton Erskine centres.

He said: “Debs’ vision, passion and determination has left a mark that will never fade. Her leadership helped establish the centre and created a legacy of community, support and friendship that will benefit veterans for years to come.”

Fellow member, Rob Warren, presented her with a framed drawing and she also received a special edition of the EVACN members’ newsletter, chronicling milestones from the centre’s journey, including a foreword from CEO, Ian Cumming.

A plaque mounted at EVACN will serve as a reminder of Debs’ commitment and dedication to the veterans.

Meanwhile, 16 members also recently enjoyed seeing saw how poppies and wreaths are made at Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory in Edinburgh. The group was welcomed by the factory team and were given an insight into the history and significance of the poppy in Scotland.

“It was a fantastic experience,” said attendee Steve Gray. “The veterans who gave us the royal tour were so informative. We all learned how you can tell the difference between the Scottish poppy and the English one."

Visits elsewhere for EVACN members are part of the centre’s commitment to shared experiences and heritage.

Fellow member Garry Burgess added: “This one was interesting and inspiring. To see equipment still in use after more than 100 years was remarkable.”

Finally, EVACN accepted a £500 donation from Forres Fire Station, presented by firefighter, David Haytack who also serves as vice chairman of the EVACN members committee.

He said: "It’s an honour to support the incredible work being done at EVACN. We’re proud to give something back to the community."

Each year, the fire team escort Santa around Forres and Kinloss with the Rotary Club. The much-loved event raises vital funds, split between the Rotary Club and the Fire Station to support local charities and causes.

Erskine development manager, Michael Parkes, said: “This generous donation will help make a difference. We rely on voluntary income to continue activities and services that help our members connect, learn new skills, and find renewed purpose after service.”

For more information, visit https://www.erskine.org.uk/get-support/our-activity-centres/erskine-veterans-activity-centre-north/