Association unveils a new standard

Members of the Sunderland 251 Association with their new standard after it was dedicated at The Gunners Club, Mary Street, Sunderland, on Sunday.

Sunderland 251 Association was set up over a year and a half ago with three objectives: to dedicate a standard, march on Remembrance Sunday and to hold charity events.

Now the group, which is made up of members of the former 251 Field Ambulance squadron, has its standard, which was blessed by Padre Ken Smith.

The association’s secretary Karl Craigs said: “We’ve now got 72 paid-up members, of which normally we get around 30 in during our monthly meetings.

“We’re always looking for new members who had something to do with 251, either if they served with the squadron or had partners in there.”

Mr Craigs added that it is hoped that a special event can be held next year to mark 50 years since the creation of the squadron.

“We aim to have a big function sorted.

“I can’t confirm it yet but I think we will be the longest running Territorial Army squadron in the North East.”

For more information on the group, which meets on the second Sunday of every month at the Gunners Club in Sunderland city centre’s Mary Street, search for 251 Field Ambulance on Facebook or call Mr Craigs on 07445 219182.