A former Barkingside soldier is starting a club for serving and former members of the armed forces to help them navigate civilian life.

John Hopkins, who served with the Royal Corps of Signals, has set up a weekly drop-in session where anyone can get advice and a friendly cup of tea.

He said: “If ex-forces people need help, many have no idea of how to actually contact anyone, especially some who do not have internet access.

The church has kindly offered a space within the building for a confidential chat if needed or we can sit with everyone else who comes in and just natter and drink tea.”

The sessions at St Laurence Church, Donington Avenue, Barkingside, will offer advice on how to get access to service and medical records, receiving the veteran’s badge awarded to all servicemen and women and applying for the government’s new armed forces discount card.

Visitors will also be offered help on any problems with housing or benefits. The sessions, sponsored by charity the Veteran’s

Affair League, will run from 10.30-12.30pm starting on Wednesday.

Call John on 020 8220 7766 or email forceshelp@virginmedia.com for more information.