Armed Forces Community Support Hub - Devon/Exeter

Our much loved friend and old shipmate Lawrence Skinner has cast off his final mooring. A celebration of his life will take place on Wednesday 17th June at Exeter Crematorium at 1430. Fellow Hub members are invited to join Sandra, Lesley and the Family for Lawrence's final send off. Fair winds and following seas.

The Family have requested a rough idea of numbers at the Crematorium so please would you be kind enough to confirm attendance in the comments below, thank you.

Following the service there will be a gathering at The White Hart, Woodbury from circa 1600 to further celebrate the life of Lawrence. Sandra and Lesley wish to extend an invitation to all who wish to attend.

Last dogwatch done Lawrence, now a new berth awaits you Shippers!

🌺 Supporting a Beautiful Remembrance Project at Watermeadow Grange 🌺

The HUB is proud to support the wonderful “Help Us Remember Them” project at Watermeadow Grange in Topsham. Residents are hoping to create a stunning display of hundreds of handmade poppies in time for Remembrance Day 2026 — a powerful tribute to those who served and sacrificed.

They are looking for support from the local community, schools, craft groups, families, veterans, and anyone who enjoys knitting, crocheting, felting, sewing, or crafting. Poppies can be any size or style — every single one will help create something truly meaningful and memorable.

This is a lovely opportunity for our Armed Forces community and wider local community to come together through creativity, remembrance, conversation, and connection.

The HUB also attends the monthly veterans drop-in at Watermeadow Grange on the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 2pm. We warmly encourage veterans of all ages and backgrounds to come along — whether you are seeking companionship, support, shared understanding, or simply enjoy connecting with others who have served. It’s a welcoming space where different generations of veterans can meet, share experiences, and support one another.

If you would like to get involved with the poppy project or attend the drop-in, please contact Watermeadow Grange on 01392 341734.

📍 Watermeadow Grange
Bewick Avenue, Topsham, Exeter EX3 0FF

Together, we remember. ❤️

HUB Weekly Activities — Week Commencing 01 June 2026

Tuesday 02 June | 10:00
HUB Coffee & Catch Up – The Cwtch, Newton Abbot
17 Union Street, Newton Abbot TQ12 2JX
Ease into the week with a relaxed brew, good conversation, and friendly faces. No ranks, no parade ground inspections — just proper community, support, and a chance to catch up over coffee.

Wednesday 03 June | 11:00
Wellbeing & Volunteering Day – Solace in Devon
Coombehead Farm, Tongue End, Okehampton EX20 1QL
A grounding day of wellbeing, volunteering, fresh air, and good company in beautiful surroundings. A chance to recharge the batteries without anyone shouting “double time.”

Thursday 04 June | 10:00
Bacon ‘n’ Banter — GMC Lympstone
Simple orders for the morning: bacon, brews, and plenty of dits. Join us for a relaxed catch-up with dominoes, laughter, and access to HUB support if needed.
£5 suggested donation.

Friday 05 June | 10:00
Crediton Breakfast Club – The Ship Hotel
Form up for a hearty breakfast and even better company. Good food, warm conversation, and considerably friendlier than most morning briefings.

All sessions are open to veterans, serving personnel, and families.

For more information: [email protected]

A wonderful day out for the HUB last week visiting beautiful Buckfast Abbey in the heart of Devon. Originally founded in 1018, the Abbey has a long and fascinating history and was rebuilt by Benedictine monks after being largely ruined during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1500s.

From the peaceful gardens to the stunning architecture and quiet reflection spaces, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the visit, good company, plenty of laughter and a chance to connect together in such a special place.

If any members are interested in joining our future days out, please speak to a member of the HUB team or email [email protected]

Next up ... TOMORROW (Weds 27 May) we have a fabulous wellbeing day at The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth see you there from 10am. Dont forget your sun cream.