VETERANS in Tendring are being given the opportunity to retrain as a barista as part of a groundbreaking initiative.

Founded by veteran Nigel Seaman, the Coffee2Combat programme offers training and support to former soldiers using a mobile coffee and catering platform.

With the support of Colchester Council and £3,000 in funding from the Armed Forces Covenant the organisation’s mobile platform will visit a number of locations across the borough and its neighbouring district between now and the end of September.

On Thursday, August 22, the unit will be in Clacton town centre for the Clacton Air Show.

Following the events, six veterans will be offered the chance to complete a National Level Two Barista qualification in November.

Mike Lilley, Colchester councillor responsible for communities, wellbeing and public safety, said: “Combat2Coffee is a fantastic initiative that is dedicated to supporting and retaining armed forces veterans who are looking for a career change.

“Helping to identify how they can use their existing skillset in the beverage industry is one way of achieving that.

“I’m really pleased that the council is able to support the scheme and give people the chance to gain a nationally-recognised qualification.”

Visit colchester.gov.uk/armedforces.