A former serviceman from Norwich said that without the help of military charity Walking With The Wounded (WWTW), he could have ended up in jail.

Eastern Daily Press: Fundraisers taking part in the 2016 'Walking Home For Christmas'. Photo: Walking With The WoundedFundraisers taking part in the 2016 'Walking Home For Christmas'. Photo: Walking With The Wounded (Image: Archant)

And now he is urging the people of Norfolk to get behind the charity's Christmas appeal.

Sean, whose surname has not been released and who served as an Infantry gunner in 26 Regiment Royal Artillery for six years, said the group had assisted him greatly in his transition from the armed forces.

He said: 'WWTW, Project Nova and Step into Health have all given me a lot of support and direction.

'The harsh reality is that without this support I would probably have ended up in jail.'

Eastern Daily Press: Fundraisers taking part in the 2016 'Walking Home For Christmas'. Photo: Walking With The WoundedFundraisers taking part in the 2016 'Walking Home For Christmas'. Photo: Walking With The Wounded (Image: Archant)

In 2015 Sean successfully secured a place on a one year Access to Higher Education Course at City College in Norwich.

He has since begun studying Occupational Therapy at Northampton University.

Walking With The Wounded (WWTW) estimates it will treble the number of ex-servicemen and women it supports in 2018 following a 97% increase last year to more than 1,000.

With Christmas fast approaching, for many a time of financial pressure and loneliness, more ex-service personnel than ever require support.

This December, the charity is asking the people of Norfolk to sign up to their Christmas appeal, Walking Home For Christmas, to raise funds for those wounded who have little to look forward to this upcoming festive season.

Sean said: 'Christmas has always been a special time for me but I know it can be hard for others. Walking Home For Christmas brings the veteran community together to support those in need – those who are less fortunate than me.'

The charity hopes to raise a quarter of a million pounds which will enable it to change the lives of more than 400 men and women.

Andy Sloan, events manager at WWTW said: 'Too many of our ex-military have little to look forward to this Christmas. They've walked in far more dangerous environments for us, so it is the least we can all do to organise a walk for them.'

Those taking part will need to do a walk of any sort between December 8 and 17.

n To participate, sign up at wwtw.org.uk/Christmas, receive a Santa hat and fundraising pack in the post and set your walk date.