Navy "forgotten heroes" of wars

Personnel are the "forgotten heroes" of the UK's military operations.

A charity which provides support to sea personnel is facing a "mounting crisis" due to a £2m funding gap.

Barry Bryant, of Seafarers UK, said: "These men and women put their lives on the line for us and many face enormous hardship when they return to Britain."

The charity claims the Royal Navy and Royal Marines are now the "forgotten heroes" of UK military operations.

The Ministry of Defence said it worked hard to ensure the armed forces receive "all the support they need".

A poll for Seafarers UK has found that three out of four of those questioned believe the Royal Navy and Royal Marines are not recognised for their role in military operations.

It is vital that our Armed Forces receive the public recognition they deserve. MoD

The survey, conducted by market research organisation Gfk NOP, also found that 77% of those surveyed felt Navy and Marines personnel did not receive enough support on their return to the UK.

Mr Bryant, the director-general of the charity, said: "Charitable resources are stretched more and more and we urgently need to fill this funding gap to be able to provide the help that is needed."

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "The MoD works hard to ensure that everyone in the Armed Forces receives all the support they need, including medical care rated second to none and a generous financial package.

"It is vital that our Armed Forces receive the public recognition they deserve and we welcome all efforts to celebrate the work of our Service Personnel."