Congratulations and thanks have been sent to Dorset’s Lord-Lieutenant after he received a New Year Honour.

Ian Angus Campbell has been thanked and congratulated by the  Soldiers', Sailors', and Airmen's Families Association (SSAFA) after he was named Commander of the Royal Victorian Order.

Lord-Lieutenant Campbell is president of the charity’s Dorset branch and has championed the sign up of both public and private sector organisations to the Armed Forces Covenant and regularly assists in fundraising activities, helping to improve the lives of both serving people and veterans in the country.

Terry Canham, chair of SSAFA Dorset, said: “Ian Campbell has been fantastic as SSAFA president. He started his military career as a young officer and really understands the issues faced by veterans.

"Ian was particularly supportive when I started volunteering for the charity just after lockdown. It was a difficult time for the charity and Ian was there to offer guidance and help.”

Kirsty Bushell CBE, SSAFA’s national vice chair, added: “Voluntary service is the lifeblood of communities – military and civilian, in the UK and where we operate overseas.

"On behalf of SSAFA, I extend my sincere congratulations to Ian Campbell, who was recognised in the New Year Honours List for his service to others, particularly those within the Armed Forces family.”

SSAFA operates in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland as well as overseas, supporting tens of thousands of people from within the Armed Forces family - regular and reserves, serving or retired, and their families.

Volunteers come from all walks of life and a military background is not necessary. To find out about opportunities with the UK's oldest tri-service charity, visit ssafa.org.uk/volunteer.