Veterans’ associations are calling for young former servicemen and women to join up to ensure that future Manx comrades have the same level of outreach and support.

The Royal Artillery Association (RAA) in the island is concerned that organisations that help veterans may disappear if younger ex-service personnel do not step in.

Secretary Phil Glover believes that associations are important for camaraderie as well as supplying support for those who may be suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

’Our main aim is to encourage younger men and women to become a part of the association, whether that’s just signing up or becoming a committee member, so we can go forward.

’A lot of the older members are into their 80s and getting on a bit.’

Mr Glover, who served as a Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineer for seven years before being discharged for medical reasons, estimates that there are more than 300 veterans in the island with only about 100 of them being affiliated to an association.

Due to a lack of ex-service people signing up to associations, it makes it difficult to gain an accurate figure on how many people in the Isle of Man have served in the Army, Navy and RAF.

The RAA, which is based at Columba Club on Circular Road in Douglas, runs a variety of events for veterans to take part in.

However, it is also open to new suggestions that will make more veterans feel encouraged to join.

’When we get together we have a lot of laughs and a lot of fun. We just had our black tie dinner dance on Saturday (October 20) and it was fabulously done.

’In the summer we also have a coach trip where we take everyone around the island to Peel, Ramsey and Castletown to have a few beers and a laugh on the way home. People tend to relax over a pint, but it doesn’t always have to be that.

’If we have a younger element in, we can adjust it into their direction. It’s about going forward.’

He added that since the island is a small place the RAA is not specifically open to just ’gunners’, but to all veterans.

PTSD is an issue that island associations such as the RAA, Royal British Legion, Soldiers, Sailors Airmen and Family Association (SSAFA) and others are keen to provide support towards.

Mr Glover continued: ’You get fellas who have suffered a lot. They have seen some things that you would not be able to comprehend and they keep it to themselves. It’s a well-known fact that a lot of men committed suicide after serving in the Falklands.

’If veterans need our help we’re there and we can point them in the right direction. Veterans are proud people and we’ll see that here especially in the island. They don’t want to ask for help.

’I’ve helped a couple of younger men get back on their feet, it’s knowing where they are and how to help them. I’d like to think that we can encourage them that there’s help out there if they need it. Associations can give them information, camaraderie and they can meet other people.’