A VETERAN who credits a Help for Heroes recovery centre for turning his life around has become the first former soldier in the UK to receive a specialist archery qualification.

Fred Bates, from Darlington, is a veteran of the Queens Royal Irish Hussars and a regular visitor to Phoenix House recovery centre in Catterick Garrison, which is helping him pull his life back together after suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

After enrolling on a pathfinder experience with the charity, staff discovered Mr Bates, 63, was a skilled bow, arrow and string maker within longbow archery – and encouraged him to take part in an assessment course.

Mr Bates is now the first veteran in the UK – and first man in England – to be awarded a level two in archery by Welsh governing body Agored Cymru.

Help for Heroes approached the Welsh award scheme, along with Creo Skills Ltd, to help because no other UK organisation offers and archery qualification outside of standard coaching certificates.

Mr Bates’ qualification is recognised in all other European countries, and elsewhere around the world.

He said: “Real archery, as it is also known, is very different from modern archery.

“It is considered a martial art, rather than a sport, more like a philosophy and way of life.

“I hope that the fact that this accredited learning is now available will promote this type of archery as well as letting those who already enjoy it know that there is an educational standard to which they can aspire to reach.

“Until now, I have learned all I know by practising long bow archery, making the equipment and teaching the art: now I have proof, in the form of a certificate, that I am an expert in my craft.”

The pathfinder course at Phoenix House is part of Help for Heroes career recovery, which aims to help veterans realise their potential and find a meaningful life - either in the workplace or just life in general.

Help for Heroes training and development manager April Britton said: “When an injury occurs, it can change your life instantly and, before you know it, what you thought would be a career for life has gone.

“Working towards a goal such as a qualification can contribute towards an individual’s personal recovery.”

To contribute to the Northern Echo’s £100,000 Appeal for a performing arts centre at Phoenix House, visit http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/campaigns/helpforheroes/donate/, or call 01748- 834148.