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SVR veterans unite for memorable Crathie adventure

Veterans from all three of Scottish Veterans Residences’ sites came together to enjoy a week-long activity break in Royal Deeside, thanks to the generosity of Crathie Opportunity Holidays.

Residents supported by the charity headed north to take part in a programme of rock climbing, abseiling, hill-walking, archery, go-karting, and other activities, during a memorable stay in the holiday cottages in Cairngorms National Park, near Balmoral.

The ex-servicemen and women from SVR’s residences at Whitefoord House in Edinburgh, Bellrock Close in Glasgow, and Rosendael in Dundee revelled in the change the scenery, the camaraderie, and the chance to bond with other Veterans.

SVR Activities Officer Darren Morgan, who accompanied the group, said: “We had an excellent week together and the group really enjoyed the experience and the location. It was great to see the residents enjoying themselves in the outdoors and taking on new challenges, and having Crathie as a base gave them the opportunity to relax.

“The weather at this time of year can be challenging, but we still managed a good selection of activities, including climbing two Munros. The residents mixed well together which was great to see. We are grateful to Crathie Opportunity Holidays for having us.”

Rosendael resident Nigel said: “I enjoyed it all, particularly the beautiful countryside” while Bellrock resident Brian said: “This was a new experience, being away together with the other guys, and the whole week has been brilliant.”

David Sherrard, chairman of Crathie Opportunity Holidays, said: “We were delighted to welcome Scottish Veterans for a short break in our holiday cottages which are specifically designed to enable Access For All.

“It was heartening to hear that this group of Veterans enjoyed all the surrounding and calming scenery with hill walks, some rock climbing and a visit to the Deeside Activity Centre. We hope very much they went home feeling much refreshed after their break.”

• Crathie Opportunity Holidays is a registered charity run by a Board of Trustees, all volunteers from the local communities of Crathie, Ballater and Braemar. The facility, opened in 2002, has four disabled-friendly holiday cottages with access for all, located in Royal Deeside in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. More info at: www.crathieholidays.org.uk