Not many veterans get a chance to help others every day, but one Sandbach resident is doing just that.

David Crosthwaite is the Veterans Champion at Ashfields Primary Care Centre in the town, a post which sees him as a care co-ordinator.

Not only is he the driving force behind a 'chat bench' outside the surgery in Middlewich Road, he is also reaching out to veterans to get in touch.

For David, who lives in Elworth, says talking and airing issues or problems is the first thing people should do.

"I would urge people to get in touch. If no one tells us what your concerns are we can't do anything about them," says David.

"Talking is so important which is why I set up the chat bench outside. Being in the Forces teaches you to be disciplined and look after yourself.

"Sometimes it's a case of signposting people in the right direction and ensuring they get the help they need, whatever that is." 

One of the first things David did was set up the chat bench outside the practice in an area between it and Aldi.

The plaque reads: "Sit here and chat, make new friends, make today a good day".

The practice has received the bronze award for the Employer Recognition Scheme Armed Forces Covenant.

It has been recognised as an Armed Forces veteran friendly accredited practice as well as being recognised by the Royal College of GPs.

David served with the Cheshire Regiment in the infantry and signals and has served in Ireland, Hong Kong, Canada and Thailand to name a few.

He joined up as a sixteen-year-old from Birkenhead and left after serving for nine years going on to join the police and other jobs.

He worked in Merseyside as a PC, including special branch work, retiring from the police in 2012.

David then went on to work for Cheshire West as a gypsy liaison officer before joining Healthwatch as a co-ordinator.

"The role at Ashfields came up and I was fortunate enough to get it. My role is about helping others and giving doctors more time to see patients," said David.

The practice is a busy one, with 27,500 patients and David reckons there's around 700 veterans in the area.

He recently spoke at the first veterans breakfast organised by the Sandbach branch of the RBL at the Military Arms.

"I've always wanted to help others," says David. "I get so much satisfaction from helping people.

"People often email me to say thank you or send me cards. We're not just here for soldiers, we're here for their families too.

"My role is making veterans aware of the help and support that's available to them whether it be from SAFFA or the RBL."

Veterans who are registered with Ashfields can contact David at [email protected]