A TILLICOULTRY man has organised a fundraiser for Combat Stress as a thank you for providing him with a lifeline.

Chris Paterson sought the help of the charity when a scaffolding accident triggered his post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

He has credited the work of the veterans' mental health charity for keeping him going, insisting he "wouldn't be here" without its support.

The 42-year-old, who joined the army at 16, is determined to raise money for the cause and has drawn on his hobby in order to do so.

His inaugural charity golf day at Tillicoultry Golf Club has already received a wealth of support from members of the public and sponsors.

Chris is also speaking out in order to raise awareness of the charity and the kind of support and treatment it offers.

He said: "Combat Stress has been a very important part of my life.

"In fact it was a huge turning point – without them I would not be here today."

Chris, who returned to Tilly in 2009 and spent seven years in the Argylls, is a long-time golf fan and has been playing since he was around 12-years-old. When he started planning his event he thought it would be a small affair, but has been shocked at the response so far.

Sixty golfers have signed up to play and, although he can't accept any more, people are more than welcome to head along on the day.

Those wishing to help can offer donations for the raffle, or try their hand to be in with a chance of winning a prize, while learning more about the cause.

Chris said: "I would very much appreciate people to support my golf event for Combat Stress to help the charity be promoted more in the public eye.

"And to raise as much as possible so they can help other veterans who need their support like I do, and still do.

"They are very under-funded and need as much support from people as possible.

"Please give what you can to this charity, as they are fantastic and help so many veterans."

Robert Marsh, director of income generation for Combat Stress, added: "We're extremely grateful to Chris Paterson for choosing to support Combat Stress through his charity golf event in October.

"Without our amazing fundraisers like Chris, we wouldn't be able to provide this vital service to former servicemen and women."

The golf event will take place on Saturday, October 1. For more details, donation enquiries or to offer raffle prizes, please email Chris on chrispaterson1974@hotmail.co.uk

COMBAT STRESS

  • Combat Stress was founded in May 1919 and was originally called the Ex-Servicemen's Welfare Society
  • It provides treatment for ex service personnel suffering mental ill-health.
  • The charity has three treatment centres, including Ayrshire
  • Its programmes support veterans with PTSD, depression and anxiety
  • Staff work in partnership with other organisations to offer support in the community
  • Combat Stress also offers support for loved ones or carers of ex-servicemen and women

The charity also has a 24-hour helpline: 0800 138 1619