Sheffield veterans join Covid-19 battle at drive-through testing centres

Teams of former armed forces personnel are once again in the line of duty by playing a pivotal part in the government’s programme to provide Covid-19 tests at drive-through centres across the country.

James Parker, from Sheffield, has been working at a testing facility in what he describes as a second opportunity to ‘serve Queen and country’ – and at the same time provide for his family after facing possible financial disaster.

James said: “I had a great career as a military policeman. I went into it with just GCSEs and left with a degree and experience of working abroad, having made great friends and being part of a fantastic community.

“When the pandemic struck my work dried up and as both my partner and myself are self-employed, we found ourselves struggling financially.

“You sign up to the Armed Forces to protect Queen and country and by helping at these NHS testing centres, we’re now helping Queen and country in another way.

“A lot of people go through the drive-through centres each day and I think they get real reassurance from seeing a military veteran on guard and helping out.

“We have had people leaving say to us that they were really nervous and scared when they arrived but we helped put their minds as ease, so that’s obviously a really nice part of the work.”

David Childs, 52, from Penistone, is normally stationed in Kabul but spent three weeks working at a testing centre when his return flight was cancelled due to the pandemic.

He said: “From what I have seen during my time at the testing centres, and at home in Penistone, there is a real sense of community and that British bulldog spirit to help others and band together - that’s going to be absolutely key to the country’s recovery.

“I thoroughly enjoyed being able to help the cause.

“It’s plain to see how seriously service veterans are taking this. We provide much-needed experience in very difficult circumstances and can apply our skills to different procedures.”