Council pledges to do more to support servicemen in Mole Valley

Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) signed an armed forces community covenant today with the military rehabilitation centre at Headley Court, near Leatherhead.

Chairman Councillor David Sharland signed the covenant at the centre on behalf of members and residents and chief executive Yvonne Rees signed for council officers.

The signing of the covenant furthers the strong ties which have been forged between the armed forces within Mole Valley and Mole Valley District Council, which included the granting to Headley Court of the Freedom of Mole Valley in 2010 and the Armed Forces Parade through Dorking in June, which was supported by more than 5,000 people.

Councillor Sharland said: "Covenants such as Mole Valley’s recognise the unique sacrifices made by members of the armed forces to keep Britain free and we should be pleased to play our role in encouraging the full integration of the armed forces community into civilian life.

"The covenant also highlights the council and our partners’ intention to engage with our communities and further our relationship with residents in Mole Valley who have served in the armed forces.

"We are all well aware of the remarkable work that goes on in our military establishments, including Headley Court, and signing the covenant today recognises that work and in particular rehabilitation of all the wounded, injured and sick."

Group Captain Clare Walton, commanding officer at Defence Medical Rehabilitation Unit Headley Court, said: "It is a proud moment for us to sign this covenant and our armed forces deserve our thanks for a job well done."

"As I reach the end of my tenure as the commanding officer of DMRC Headley Court it is privilege to sign the covenant on behalf of her majesty’s armed forces.

"Today’s signing ceremony is a significant milestone and a true reflection of the respect shown by the community of Mole Valley to all those who have and continue to serve."