A NEW coffee morning for veterans is launching in Basingstoke to given anyone who served in the armed forces a place to meet and chat.

The coffee morning is run by veterans for veterans, and will take place on Monday, November 6, at the Oakridge West Community Association, in Upton Crescent.

The event will run from 10.30am to 12.30pm and is open to anyone who has served in the armed forces, along with serving personnel. Tea, coffee, biscuits and cake will be provided.

The coffee morning is free, but donations are most welcome to help cover running costs.

A spokesperson said: “This will be the first coffee morning of several upcoming in the Basingstoke area, in view of eventually getting Basingstoke a permanent veterans’ hub.”

Basingstoke and Deane Armed Forces champion and veteran Cllr Alex Lee said: "It’s welcome news to hear of the new Veterans Coffee Morning taking place in Oakridge.

"Basingstoke has a remarkable history of support for and to those who have served and this new initiative will help those who have served connect in a warm environment, talk about the fond memories that they share of service and eventually, be a place where help and support can be provided.

"I hope that veterans of all ages will feel confident to attend and support it going forward."