More PTSD awareness call after ex-UDR tragedy

Friends and former comrades of ex-UDR soldier Bill Elwood said he had a “big heart” and was determined to help others while he “fought his own demons”.

Mr Elwood, from the Forthriver area of Belfast, was associated with the Ards-based Beyond the Battlefield charity.

Chief executive Annemarie Hastings said: “Bill always had a smile on his face and was always making sure that everyone else was ok.

“We all owe a huge debt to our armed forces but, contrary to popular belief, most do not transition well into civilian life.

“There are many statistics, much research and media coverage for suicide amongst veterans, but do we really know the scale of this continuing problem?”

Ms Hastings added: “Bill had a big heart and he was always trying to help those around him while he fought his own demons.

“He was a great friend of the charity who joined the team at Stormont last year in support Northern Ireland veterans suffering from PTSD.

“This year’s walk on the bank holiday weekend in August from Edinburgh Castle to Stormont Belfast will be held in memory of Bill.”

The Funeral Times website shows that Mr Elwood’s funeral service will take place at the Belfast City Mission on the Forthriver Road on Thursday at 3pm.

Beyond the Battlefield can be contacted on 028 91225610 or at www.beyondthebattlefield.org.

Anyone suffering severe post traumatic stress disorder or otherwise in despair can contact the Samaritans on 116 123 (free on any phone) or on 0330 094 5717.