Inaugural veterans’ coffee morning at Skelmanthorpe care home sees residents awarded Ministry of Defence honours in recognition of  military service

A special presentation took place this week at Longroyds and Pilling House Care Home in Skelmanthorpe, as residents were officially presented with Ministry of Defence (MOD) badges and certificates.

The event, which marked the home’s first-ever veterans’ coffee morning, brought together residents, families, and local dignitaries to celebrate the lives of those who served in the British Armed Forces.

The “HM Armed Forces – Veteran” lapel badges are awarded to eligible former service personnel, as well as war widows and widowers.

Joining the residents for the ceremony were representatives from the Rural Veterans Hubs Kirklees, a veteran-led community initiative, and Kirklees Council Councillor Tim Bamford.

Stories of Service and Remembrance

Among those honoured was Neil Sykes, 90, who spent two years at RAF Kirkham.

A talented musician, Neil played the cornet in the military band, recalling his proudest moment as playing the national anthem for Queen Elizabeth II during the inauguration of Scammonden Dam in 1971.

Fellow resident Elizabeth Martin, 88, received her badge in recognition of her late husband, Sergeant Major Tommy Martin, who served for many years in The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

“We met at a dance when Tommy was stationed in Northern Ireland, near to where I lived,” Elizabeth shared.

“After we got married, we spent many years travelling the country while he served, living in the married quarters.”

For Robert Guyan, 84, who served nine years as a senior aircraftsman in the RAF, the ceremony was a poignant reminder of his career.

“A lot of things happened in the forces that were classified, and we aren’t allowed to talk about them, but I am very proud of my service and thankful for all the places I travelled to and have seen around the world,” Robert said.

“Receiving the veterans pin and certificate means a lot. I know my wife, who has passed away, would be very proud.”

RAF veteran Robert Guyan, 84, with his HM Armed Forces Veteran pin and certificate

Achieving ‘Veteran Friendly’ Status

The event marks a significant milestone for Longroyds and Pilling House, which has officially achieved Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) status.

This national scheme, supported by the Royal British Legion, Royal Star & Garter, and the NHS, aims to improve the wellbeing of the 25,000 veterans living in residential care across England.

To achieve this status, the home met eight rigorous standards, including specialist staff training and ensuring military history is integrated into personalised care plans to combat social isolation.

Tracey Keenan, Home Manager, expressed her pride in the team’s achievement: “We’re all very proud to receive Veteran Friendly Framework status, as it’s an honour to care for those who have served and sacrificed for their country.

“The team has undertaken specialist training to enhance their awareness of the challenges faced by veterans, ensuring their experiences are recognised and honoured.”

Elizabeth Martin, 88, with her HM Armed Forces Veteran pin and certificate.

A Growing Community

The coffee morning is set to become a regular fixture on the home’s calendar, providing a dedicated space for veterans to share stories over tea and cake.

“The aim of the coffee morning events is to create a safe space where our veterans, friends and family can come together, share memories, chat together and feel part of a strong community,” added Keenan.

“The event is open to any members of our veteran community, and we hope to see as many as possible next time.”

The next veterans’ coffee morning at the Pilling Lane home is scheduled for Wednesday, 20th May 2026.