WOUNDED, injured and sick servicemen and women from the Help for Heroes-run recovery centre at Tedworth House in Tidworth have been treated to a festive cooking masterclass from Michelinstarred chef Alan Murchison.

Learning about all the different types of chocolate, from all over the world, the Tidworth residents then watched Mr Murchison helping to prep a full Christmas dinner.

Mr Murchison said: “The facilities at Tedworth House have blown me away and I am so impressed to hear about the support offered by Help for Heroes.

“Everybody I have met here has been so inspirational, and listening to their stories you can see that they are all on a journey, and I feel blessed to be able to help them on this journey even in such a small way – by passing on my scare stories about poor nutrition!”

Tedworth House is one of four recovery centres run by Help for Heroes, which forms part of the Defence Recovery Capability.

Tedworth House aims to inspire the wounded, injured and sick and returning veterans to lead active, independent and fulfilling lives, which will enable them to reach their full potential and to support themselves and their families for life.

It is a place of opportunities, providing education, training, sport and adventure in a relaxed, understanding and caring environment.

State-of-the art facilities and dedicated staff aid residents on the road to recovery.

Tedworth House resident and Navy veteran Nick Richardson said: “It’s been a tough year, but Tedworth House has been a sanctuary.

“Getting out of my house for days like this, with Help for Heroes, really helps.

“It’s been great to meet Alan and see how professionals work, in such a relaxed environment.

“I love cooking and food plays a hugely important role in our family.

“We encourage the children to cook once a week and we always sit down to share dinner together.

It’s an important way to keep connected, particularly when times are tough.”

Thanks to British Turkey’s kind donation of turkeys, residents were then treated to the full Christmas dinner, sitting down to eat and learn more cooking tips from Mr Murchison.