Richard

Ex Royal Engineers

Currently Engineer and Plumber,
LWM Rentals, Durham

“I think The Poppy Factory is a brilliant organisation.  My life is back on track and my future is brighter now.”

After school, Richard repaired lawnmowers on the YTS Scheme and soon realised that his working future would be bleak.  He decided to join the Royal Engineers at 16 and spent 10 years in the army.  He visited Norway, the Falklands, Canada and Germany.  Whilst serving he injured his knee, arm, shoulder and back.  After the army, Richard drove a lorry and became a forklift instructor.  After slipping on ice and injuring his knee again he lost his job.  He was on medication and off work for a year and split from his wife.

With support from the RBLI and The Poppy Factory, Richard started working for a friend’s new company, repairing and renting domestic washing machines.  His boss, Ivan Strike explained, “During this difficult start-up period it is great to have support from The Poppy Factory and in turn we can support Richard, who is so deserving.  He is a motivated, hard working and trustworthy person and just as a model employee should be.