Friends of The Veterans Cottage

27/07/2026

24/07/2026

EXCITING NEWS FOR THIS SATURDAY!

We’re so excited to have Julia, our fantastic Neal’s Yard therapist, joining us for brunch at The Veterans Cottage!

If you’ve never experienced a professional massage before, or it’s been far too long, this is your chance.

Whether you’re a veteran or the partner of a veteran, come and treat yourself to some well-earned time out. Massage can help ease aching muscles, reduce stress, improve sleep and leave you feeling refreshed.

Julia is an incredible therapist with truly healing hands, and we’re delighted she’s bringing her skills to support our veteran community.

💙 As an added bonus, every client on Saturday will receive a lovely Neal’s Yard goody bag to take home!

Don’t keep putting yourself last. We spend so much time looking after everyone else—this Saturday is about looking after you.

📍 The Veterans Cottage
🗓 This Saturday
🕚12-3pm

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out. Come for the therapy, stay for the brews, laughs and great company. We can’t wait to see you!

https://uk.nyrorganic.com/shop/juliaanderson

08/07/2026

Cat and Gemma will be taking on a tandem paragliding challenge, soaring thousands of feet above Rutland. Neither of us enjoys heights, making this one of the biggest personal challenges we’ve ever faced. But if facing our fears helps keep The Veterans Cottage open for those who need us, then it’s a challenge worth taking.

We’ll also be joined by Lee, a seasoned paraglider who will be taking to the skies to film our flights, capturing every scream, smile and unforgettable moment from above.

A huge thank you to Rutland Airports Joint Services for making this incredible fundraising challenge possible. Their generosity and support have given us the opportunity to raise vital funds while creating memories we’ll never forget.

Every donation, no matter the amount, helps us continue supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families through peer support, social activities, wellbeing sessions and practical guidance.

By sponsoring our challenge, you’re not just helping us complete a frightening adventure—you’re helping ensure The Veterans Cottage remains a place of warmth, friendship and support for our Armed Forces community.

Thank you for standing with us and helping us turn fear into something that makes a real difference!

https://gofund.me/b1a8b54e9

03/07/2026

It’s teacher season…. 🥹 I know it’s end of term but I like to think of it as a celebration to the people help my babies grow and thrive every day! You really are magic!

13/06/2026

Today, we remember James Ashworth, a soldier of the 1st Battalion, Grenadier Guards, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during the War in Afghanistan.
On 13 June 2012, in Nahr-e Saraj, Afghanistan, Guardsman Ashworth led from the front under intense fire. He repeatedly put himself in danger to protect his team, drawing fire and pressing forward against insurgents. His actions saved lives.

He was just 23 years old.

There’s a tendency to use words like “hero” without fully sitting with what that means. This was a young man who made a decision, in real time, to put others before himself—knowing the cost.

At The Veterans Cottage, we don’t just remember the medal.
We remember the man. The sacrifice. And the families and friends who carry that loss long after the headlines fade.

Rest in peace, Guardsman Ashworth VC.
We will remember.

04/06/2026

PTSD doesn’t just affect one person.
It affects the whole family.

Whether your background is RAF, Navy, Army, Reservist, or any other service—
to the ones supporting, holding it together, and trying to understand—
we see you.

It can be exhausting. It can feel isolating.
You don’t have to carry it on your own.

At The Veterans Cottage, you’re welcome here too.
A safe, supportive space where you can talk, breathe, and be heard.

Reach out. We’re here for you as well.