"My name is Jim. I'm 68 years' old and I live in sheltered housing in Ardrossan. I served with The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders from late 1970 to the summer of 1978, and then was discharged on medical grounds. I’ve had a number of jobs over the years, namely a council bin man and a range warden until it closed. I also served in The Royal Observer Corps until its disbandment; after which I volunteered with a local cadet force, reaching the rank of SSI. During my time there I qualified as a Class 3 chef. After 16 years, I moved to England, where I worked for several years as a security guard. I returned to Scotland in 2016 to be closer to family, and then retired at the young age of 64.
"I’ve been to The Haven at Vanguard twice now. The first time was on 24th July for the open day with 3 friends from RBLS 3 towns. The founders and all the volunteers made us most welcome. We had a lovely walk around the horses and ponies, then a nice stroll around the Vanguard property before it was time for soup, tea and chat - it was so relaxing. The second visit was a week later and just as good. It’s such a tranquil setting. I’m planning a third trip up with friends from the RBLS 3 towns. Apparently I’m going to be taming some wild stallions they’ve got there! "
