3 days ago
Blind veterans enjoy sports day during summer camp at HMS Sultan
Blind veterans from across the UK enjoyed a fun sports day at the HMS Sultan Summer Camp in Gosport.
The day was part of a thrilling week-long programme of activities at the naval engineering training base.
The enthusiastic participants, aided by their human guides, took part in a variety of challenges including hoopla, basketball, deck hockey, and skittles.
They were supported by volunteers from HMS Sultan and the retired service community acting as 'dogs' to guide them.
Blind veterans take aim during activities at HMS Sultan, supported by volunteer 'human guides' from the naval base and retired Service community (Image: Barry Swainsbury) The camp is not just about fun.
It is aimed at encouraging those who suffer from sight loss to remain independent.
The activities at the camp—sailing, archery, indoor climbing, crazy golf, and horse riding—are all designed to motivate and inspire the veterans.
Blind Veterans UK member, Charlie Parkinson from the Wirral, participated in the event this year.
READ MORE: Fun for all the family at HMS Sultan's action-packed Families Day
Charlie, who lost his sight in 2010, said the charity had been life-changing for him, saving him from a dark period where he had contemplated suicide.
He said: "This is life-changing.
"When I first joined Blind Veterans UK, I was in a very bad place and very close to suicide, but the charity helped save my life and change my life.
"It's all about companionship and enjoying yourself."
Captain Mark Hamilton, commanding officer of HMS Sultan, expressed his delight at hosting the veterans.
He said: "It is a huge honour to welcome the veterans into HMS Sultan for the Blind Veterans' Summer Camp.
"The week is crammed full of fun activities that challenge not only those taking part, but also the stereotypes around disabilities."
Adrian Bell, CEO of Blind Veterans UK, was full of praise for the event and the support from HMS Sultan.
He said: "Each time I attend this camp, I'm reminded of why it's so special.
"The camaraderie, the challenge of new activities, and the support from HMS Sultan create an environment where our members can truly flourish.
"I'm so grateful to everyone at HMS Sultan for their wonderful support in making this exceptional week possible."
The Blind Veterans UK Summer camp has been successfully hosted by HMS Sultan since 1996, following the closure of HMS Daedalus.
