The Right Honourable Angela Rayner MP Representing Ashton-under-Lyne (including Audenshaw, Droylsden and Dukinfield)

Angela had the great honour of being invited to attempt the Big Truck Reverse Challenge with the Veterans into Logistics team.
Veterans into Logistics is a superb charity that was formed to provide training and support to change the lives of ex-forces, individuals with convictions and any other vulnerable people who need help to gain HGV licences and guidance into paid employment.
Angela has met with members of the team on several occasions and they have introduced her to veterans from my constituency who they have supported into paid work with firms such as Muller and Asda.
This charity is close to Angela’s heart as her brother served in the British Army and she saw how difficult it was for him to adjust to civilian life when he left the Force.

Angela said: “I have always considered myself a good driver so I was excited to give this challenge a go. I seem to remember that Labour Party Leader Keir Starmer tried and failed this challenge in the not too distant past so I was keen to nail it on the first attempt.
“The truck that I was to complete my mission in is dedicated to the memory of Sergeant Jamie Doyle. Jamie served for 22 years in the Royal Artillery but tragically took his own life less than a year after he left the Army as he was unable to cope.
“Veterans into Logistics founder and former Royal Artillery Airborne Gunner Darren Wright provided my onsite training and told me that reversing is one of the most complicated aspects of HGV driver training. No pressure then!
“After Darren talked me through the practicalities of driving such a heavy vehicle, I was ready to give it a go and I am delighted to say that I was successful on my very first go!
“After I had completed the challenge, I went to the Veterans into Logistics headquarters to meet more members of the team and I look forward to working with them in the future to support our veterans.”
Find out more about this incredible charity at visit www.veteransintologistics.org.uk.