A group of veterans, including one from Lancashire, embarked on a poignant journey back to the Falkland Islands for the first time since the conflict in 1982.

The trip aimed to provide closure for veterans, addressing feelings of loss and guilt, while forging new memories and lasting friendships.

A significant aspect of their journey was the visit to the HMS Coventry memorial on Pebble Island, honouring the crew members who lost their lives on May 25, 1982.

Former Royal Navy MEM Tony Williams, from Preston, was among the returning veterans.

Opening up about his experience, he said: “This trip has helped me enormously with my state of mind, as I always wanted to go to the HMS Coventry memorial and pay my respects to my good friend, Steve Tonkin, who was sadly lost that fateful day.

“The opportunity to go to the memorial has and will help my state of mind and has allowed me to come to terms with it. For this, I am extremely grateful to the charity for facilitating my return to the islands, paying my respects, and meeting nine strangers who no doubt will become lifelong friends.”

The trip, which took place in March, was supported by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and Greenwich Hospital.

Mandy Lindley, director of relationships and funding at RNRMC, said: "My heartfelt thanks go out to each individual who has generously shared their personal experiences of this trip with us. Your openness and willingness to connect have been nothing short of inspiring, reminding us of the profound impact our funding can have."

Jonathan Ball, director of grants at Greenwich Hospital, said: “Supporting initiatives, such as this poignant trip to the Falkland Islands, helps keep veterans connected with their wider military community, engaging with colleagues and friends. We aim to foster a sense of belonging and ongoing support among veterans.”