Heroes lent a helping hand at the RSPCA Danaher Animal Home.

Staff at the Animal Home, in Hedingham Road, Wethersfield, were delighted to receive help from the residents and staff from the Help for Heroes Recovery Centre at Chavasse VC House, a purpose built recovery centre, in Colchester.

The six veterans, who painted rooms, laid new paths, sorted donations and assembled dog beds, visited the home as part of a Pathfinder course, a week-long experience designed for wounded and long term sick veterans to help them with the transition back into the civilian world.

Simon Taylor, a former rifleman, said: “It was great to be able to put our skills to good use; just knowing the animals would directly benefit from our work today means a lot.

“This experience was exactly what the lads needed, it gave us a break from the norm and we’re grateful to Chavasse VC House for allowing us the opportunity to give something back following the amazing support they have given us.”