Over 200 current and former armed services personnel attended Trent Bridge’s recent event in support of the military community.

The Club offered complimentary tickets to those connected with the forces for day one of the Specsavers County Championship fixture against Kent, as part of an initiative organised by the Trent Bridge Community Trust.

Former service personnel were selected to hand over the match ball at the start of play, attend the coin toss and lead the teams on to the field.

An event in the Derek Randall Suite, meanwhile, allowed attendees to share stories and find out more about the help that is available to them, whether they are still in the military or have made the transition into civilian life.

“It was our pleasure to extend an invitation to current and former service personnel, and to provide opportunities for those who attended to engage with relevant charities,” said Mark Clifford, Community Projects Manager for the Trent Bridge Community Trust.

“The fact that in excess of 200 chose to visit Trent Bridge on the day is pleasing and something we’re keen to build on for future events. 

“Having signed the Armed Forces Covenant earlier this year, we are keen to do as much as we can to contribute to the military services community.

“For example, the day was used to help army dogs get used to being around gatherings of people.

“We believe attendance at red-ball county cricket can start to play an important role in rehabilitating former service personnel and getting them used to being in public spaces and navigating potential new challenges.”

The event is one of two organised by the Trust in recent weeks to make Trent Bridge accessbile to different areas of the community, with a Forget Me Notts event held on day two of Notts' County Championship fixture against Warwickshire.

Individuals living with dementia, along with their carers, were eligible for complimentary tickets for the day, with support provided by staff trained in Dementia Friends awareness.

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