Salisbury historian supporting veterans by "Walking Home for Christmas"

Historian James Holland has launched, and will be taking part in, a campaign aiming to raise money to support ex-military personnel with their mental health.

A recent national survey has shown that 68% of Britons say that their mental health has been negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Research by charity Walking With The Wounded also points towards the uncertainty around Christmas causing more stress at this time of year, with nearly half worried they won't be able to spend festive period with family and friends.

So James, who is the founder of the Chalke Valley History Festival, along with the 'Pub Landlord' Al Murray have launched the 'Walking Home For Christmas 2020' campaign, raising vital funds for the charity.

They are asking the general public to step out of their comfort zone and walk to somewhere important to them, in support of veterans who are having a tough time since leaving the military.

The pair, who also do their own podcast about all things World War II, will be embarking on a walk as well.

James and Al are going to be walking to some of the second World War 'Pillboxes' along the GHQ line, which was set up as a defensive reinforcement just incase the Germans tried to invade.

The historian said:

"While many of us admit to speaking with family members to help with mental health throughout lockdown, we need to spare a thought for those without family this Christmas and those suffering with loneliness. Today, Walking With The Wounded launches their annual Christmas fundraiser Walking Home For Christmas, in order to help our ex-military who are in need of support and especially during this lonely time.

We know that talking and daily exercise help to tackle our mental health issues, but humour and camaraderie is also a great way to battle the stresses caused by Covid-19. This is a time like no other to pull together and help to pick up those in need."

People can take part in a sponsored walk between the 10th and 20th of December.

There's no limit or minimum on what you have to do, it's fully up to you to decide, with any money raised going to the Walking With The Wounded charity.

It's their only fundraising drive this year.

WALKING IDEAS

Here are some suggestions from the charity on what you could do to raise a bit of money:

• Walk 12 miles of Christmas on 12th December

• Be inspired by our Walk of Oman team and cover 400km

• Do a good deed with your walk by delivering a parcel or a series of presents

• Walk from an NHS site, war memorial or barracks to your home or a pub

• Create your own Strava Art message to map out your support

For all the details and to sign up, visit walkinghomeforchristmas.com.