Inspector Jim Jones, the tactical lead for the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) in the Greater Manchester Police, recently organised a non-stop charity drive to Gibraltar. Read on to learn more about the event, and how we offered our support.
When we were working towards the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, which is linked to the Armed Forces Covenant, we were helped by those who already had the award. This included Inspector Jim Jones, the tactical lead for the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) in the Greater Manchester Police.
When Jim said he was organising a non-stop charity drive to Gibraltar, we were happy to help. And we were delighted that the charity this was in aid of was Walking With the Wounded (WWTW).
We’ve previously supported WWTW by taking part in their Cumbrian Challenge, and regularly ‘Walked Home for Christmas’.
Sadly the pandemic altered the plans for the Gibraltar drive several times, but early one morning in November we attended the launch at Greater Manchester Police HQ. Also in attendance were Scott Briggs project manager for OP-GEN at WWTW, and Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes.
WWTW was a natural choice for Jim as both GMP and Lancashire Police have commissioned Project Nova, a subsidiary of WWTW to support military veterans under arrest. Jim has seen first-hand the impact this has had on vulnerable veterans' lives.
Jim was joined in the car by Detective Martin Walsh of the Lancashire Police, a serving reservist. An all-electric MG5 was provided by MG Motors UK, with technical support by Chorley Group.
One of Jim’s aims was to bust myths about electric cars, and he gave regular updates on social media about charging points from Watford Gap. (Charge number five was appropriately at Le Mans.)
Jim crossed the Channel, driving 3,400 miles through France and Spain and back again. This prompted a lot of questions from people who were interested in technical details, including average charging time and cost. Jim has driven an electric vehicle for eight years, covering 120,000 miles, and was aware how much his carbon footprint had reduced as a result.
Once the car reached Gibraltar, it was escorted by the Royal Gibraltar Police (RGP) to their HQ, and on Armistice Day a wreath was laid at Gibraltar Parliament. The team were also present at the signing of the AFC by the Commissioner of RGP and the Commander of British Forces, in the presence of the Governor of Gibraltar.
We were happy to see Jim and Martin arrive home safely. Well done to both of them for highlighting issues about veterans and our environment, and championing the Armed Forces Covenant.
Further reading
Go back to Military in Focus
For general enquiries
0808 291 3524
Or we can call you back at a time of your choice
Phone lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year
