Plans to revive Support Group (From Western Telegraph)

Plans to revive Support Group

THE Pembrokeshire Gulf Support Group could be resurrected.Haverfordwest Town Council has agreed to act as a catalyst by offering to provide facilities for the re-formation of the group.

During the first Gulf conflict, the organisation was set up to provide support for local families who had loved ones in the war zone.

There is still £2,000 in a high interest account and Councillor Brian Griffiths, who was treasurer of the former support group, said: "The fund is still alive. It was handed over to the local British Legion branch to hold on to for a couple of years."

Councillor Griffiths' son Neil was a tank transport driver with the Royal Logistic Corps during the last Gulf war but has now left the Army. "Hopefully he will not be called up, but my heart goes out to all the families who have someone in the Gulf," said Councillor Griffiths.

Founders of the original Support Group were Jean Beegan, Cherie Harvey and Christine McHugh.

Mrs Beegan's son David was involved in the conflict. Now a highly qualified instructor with the bomb disposal unit, a job which takes him round the world, Sergeant Major Beegan is on standby for the Gulf. Her other son, who was an Army paramedic, has left the service, but as a reservist be could called up.

The kindness and generosity of the people of Pembrokeshire had a lasting impact on Jean Beegan. "We raised over £5,000 and we collected and packed up three tonnes of parcels for the troops in the Gulf and RAF Brawdy helped us deliver it. Of the money left, we later gave £500 to the Red Cross for war refugees and £500 for troops in Northern Ireland."