It was a historic day in a historic setting as the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust signed the Armed Forces Covenant onboard HMS Victory, the oldest commissioned warship in the world.

Teresa Dent, CEO of Fordingbridge-based GWCT, and Lieutenant Commander BJ Smith of the Royal Navy and Commanding Officer of HMS Victory, signed the agreement at Lord Nelson’s original table in the Great Cabin onboard the famous warship at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise an organisation makes to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

Businesses, public bodies and charities can sign the Covenant and declare their commitment to promote and support the Armed Forces. Commitments include organising and supporting events to mark Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday and supporting reservists, service leavers and their spouses.

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Teresa said the signing of the agreement was an important step for the trust.

She said: “We are delighted to support armed service veterans by signing this covenant and hope we will be able to provide opportunities for them to work in the rewarding world of science, farming, game and wildlife management in the future.”

Lt Cdr BJ Smith said: “This important step recognises, supports and encourages Armed Forces Reserve and Veteran employees within the GWCT, enabling them to thrive in the workplace while also continuing to support the United Kingdom’s safety and security."