AN ARMY officer living up to his legendary namesake Robin Hood has undergone a grueling task to help struggling veterans into work.
The former Leamington resident took to the streets of Warwickshire to cart a 30 stone statue of a Second World War soldier nearly 100 miles.
Robin, who trains up former soldiers to become HGV drivers, has so far raised £1,500, to help the some 250 veterans on his books.
The 65-year-old performed a similar task in 2018, with his First World War soldier mascot Jock. All in all he has clocked up some 3,000 miles through his unique brand of training over the years.
So far, Robin has helped over 50 veterans to secure HGV licences, including his son Robin Hood junior, who was jobless after spending 14 years as a marine soldier.
This time, after walking around town centre streets in Warwick and Stratford districts, Robin lugged mascot ‘Tommy’ to his grandfather’s war grave in Birmingham where a memorial was held.
Robin told the Observer: “I think he’d have been very proud of me. I’m 65 and it would have been hard enough for a man half my age but fortunately I always kept fit. It was an honour to be there. It’s a shame he lost his life. Part of what I do is to help veterans who have given their lives for others and who haven’t got any work, so the money I raise helps veterans who have sacrificed things for us all to be here today and help them get a job and get their lives back.”
Since his latest challenge, Robin has had nearly 20 sign-ups from veteran soldiers in the Midlands. He says the number alone, would amount to some £40,000 in training costs.
Those who would like to help Robin’s cause can email [email protected].
