FORMER soldiers and servicemen are lending their support for a new project to build the UK’s first purpose-built campus for service veterans in Wilton.

The Salisbury Veterans Breakfast Club will be working alongside Our Wilton, the team behind the project at the former Erskine Barracks, to support veterans moving to the site and help with the enterprise element of the project. The campus at Wilton Hill will include at least 44 homes for veterans who will rent the units for a period of between six to 24 months while they receive business and skills training.

The Salisbury Veterans Breakfast Club, which is an informal group offering support, was set up six months ago by Andy Heath to offer a support network for other veterans.

Andy, who served for 22 years in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps and the Royal Logistic Corps, said: “Our involvement in the Wilton project will provide a soft mentoring option for the veterans moving on to the site. Some may find it difficult – we want to be on hand to show them we can support them on their journey and can relate to the struggles they’re facing.

“We will bring a variety of other skills to the table, along with our common service experiences, which will enhance the projects overall effort.”

Sue van Leest from Our Wilton said: “Once the veterans accommodation and community café are built, the Salisbury Veterans Breakfast Club will be on site to welcome the veterans moving in.

“Having people there who understand what many of these veterans have gone through is very important and will help make that transition smoother.

“There are members of the group who are also interested in supporting the enterprise element of the project by supporting veterans into work experience and business start-up. We believe the Salisbury Veterans Breakfast Club will greatly enhance the development and delivery of the project on Wilton Hill.”

Work is due to start on the veteran’s campus at Wilton later this spring.