Our dear friend and patron John Virgo has sadly passed. May his memory be a blessing.  He was a gentle giant and a great supporter of the FCT and will be sadly missed by many. Sincere condolences to his lovely wife Rosie and his children.

R.I.P John.

Thank you so much for helping us with this! It means the world to the team that we can all be in the same gear and perform as a team. We are currently unbeaten since adopting the kit (co-incidence?!) We also had it on TV yesterday in a blink and you’ll miss it moment at Bath with Finn Russell!

THANK YOU!

Not sure what to expect? Read this account from the 2025 trip:

Outward Bound Experience in the Lake District

My name is WO2 Mark Goodridge serving at 40 Cdo.  My late wife Vicki Goodridge a former PO Royal Navy who served 24 year passed away last from Pancreatic Cancer. The last year has been very trying for our three Children, 18, 16 and 15 and myself.

The Forces Children’s Trust offered the week to all three children with the youngest two Charles and Lizzy accepting the offer and had a great time which helped them reflect on their grief.

A Week of Adventure for Bereaved British Armed Services Children: Forces Children’s Trust Outward Bound Experience in the Lake District

The Forces Children’s Trust, a charity dedicated to supporting bereaved children of British Armed service members, recently organised an unforgettable five-day adventure in the heart of the Lake District. The trip, held at the Outward Bound charity centre, was filled with thrilling outdoor activities designed to challenge, inspire, and uplift the children. The experience offered these young participants a chance to bond, build confidence, and enjoy the healing power of nature, all under the compassionate leadership of organizer Denny Wise.

The week-long event featured a variety of exciting activities, from canyoning and kayaking to hiking and swimming in the beautiful, rugged landscape of the Lake District.

Canyoning Challenge

The adventure kicked off with canyoning, an exhilarating activity that took the children through narrow gorges, across fast-moving rivers, and over slippery rock formations. The thrill of leaping into deep pools and sliding down natural rock chutes was a perfect way to get the adrenaline pumping and build camaraderie among the group. The children faced each challenge head-on, supporting each other as they navigated the rugged terrain.

Kayaking on Tranquil Lakes

The following day brought a change of pace with kayaking. The children paddled across one of the district’s serene lakes, enjoying the peaceful beauty of their surroundings. Under expert guidance, they learned how to steer and control their kayaks, with many taking to the water with confidence and enthusiasm. The laughter and splashes echoed across the lake as the group worked together, growing more comfortable with each paddle stroke.

A Wet Hike and Cozy Bothy Stay

True to the Lake District’s famously unpredictable weather, the group set out on a short hike through wet and wild conditions. Despite the rain, spirits remained high as the children trekked through the stunning landscape, encouraged by the promise of an overnight stay at a traditional bothy. The rustic shelter provided a warm and cozy refuge after the day’s hike, and the evening was spent playing games, sharing stories, and strengthening the bonds between the children.

Braving the Cold for a Lake Swim

One of the final challenges of the week was a lake swim, a test of both courage and endurance. The children bravely plunged into the cold waters, swimming with determination under the watchful eye of their instructors. For many, this was a significant personal achievement—overcoming fears and pushing beyond their comfort zones. The sense of accomplishment was palpable as they completed the swim, cheered on by their peers.

A Special Thank You

The Forces Children’s Trust organised this week of adventure to give bereaved children of service members a chance to find joy, connection, and strength in each other and in nature. Denny Wise, who put tremendous effort into planning the event, was instrumental in ensuring that the week was filled with fun, challenge, and support.

Charles and Lizzy, two participants, expressed their gratitude, saying, “Thank you so much for an amazing week! We had the best time ever and learned so much. We’ll never forget it!”

This Outward Bound experience was more than just a week of activities—it was a meaningful opportunity for these children to heal, grow, and create lasting memories in a supportive and encouraging environment. Thanks to the Forces Children’s Trust and the efforts of individuals like Denny Wise, the children were able to experience the outdoors in a way that will stay with them for years to come.

Here are some photos of what looks like a wonderful event.

To say they were nervous is an understatement and the fact that they got on the train at Euston was an achievement in itself. The welcome and reassurance given by Denny and the team was simply brilliant.

The fact that I had little communication with them when they were away showed how immersed they were on the course. They developed new skills, met some new friends, and hopefully learnt a bit  about themselves. Time will tell on the last point.

The car journey on Friday heading South from London was filled with exciting conversation, stories of bravery (undoubtedly exaggerated!), and lots of reflection. They were buzzing!

Thank you.

I hope the outward bound course went well and everyone enjoyed themselves.

Apologies again for Sophia not being able to attend, the opportunity she was given directly after graduating was too good to turn down. I’m pleased to say she is absolutely loving her life in Hong-Kong!

 I have a feeling when the term ends next June she may consider another year there!

I just wanted to say a huge heartfelt thanks to yourself and funders. We have benefited from a few military charities that offered support, encouragement and hope whilst navigating our life without Ron. You were the first door to open; for that I am truly grateful, Sophia and I have wonderful, albeit bitter sweet memories of the theatre and magical Christmas parties.

Sincere thanks & best wishes.

Michelle.

We had a relaxing and happy stay. In the villa and enjoyed the pool.

During the week away we remembered our Mum on the 2nd anniversary of her passing. We laid flowers on the beach. It was a sad day but we know our Mum would have wanted us to have a nice time.

We loved to go out for dinner and walk around the old town.

Big thank you to Denny Wise for organising and ensuring we had a great holiday.

We’ve just returned from the most wonderful holiday in Benavista, and I can’t put into words how much it has meant to us. 

A huge and heartfelt thank you to Forces Children’s Trust for giving me and my children, George and Amelia, this incredible gift. After everything we’ve been through, the time together in such a beautiful place has given us memories we will treasure forever.

A special thank you to Denny for all your kindness, care, and support in making this happen – you’ve truly made a difference to our little family.

We are so grateful. 

I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks to you for giving me and my children the opportunity to go on a holiday. After losing my husband five years ago, life has not been easy, and moments of lightness and joy have often felt out of reach.

This upcoming holiday means more to us than I can properly put into words. Just knowing we have something to look forward to—something that gives us a chance to relax, breathe, and make new memories together—is already a gift beyond measure.

I want to especially thank Denny Wise for his kindness and support. He has been so helpful and compassionate throughout the whole process, and his warmth has truly made a difference to me and my family.

Thank you again for all that you do. Your generosity and care are deeply appreciated, and we are incredibly grateful.

Warmest regards 

Sarah