The plight of soldiers after they leave the services is to be raised in Parliament by Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke.

Mr Elphicke says that as a country, it is our “debt of honour” to treat them better.

He made his comments after meeting former soldier Christian Nock, who is walking round the coast of Britain to raise money for the Armed Forces and to draw attention to the plight of homeless soldiers.

Mr Nock, 39, started his marathon trek last August and visited Dover and Deal in March. He hopes to have raised £500,000 by the time he finishes, in about two years.

Christian crosses Tower Bridge

When he visited Dover and Deal he was contacted by Mr Elphicke, who promised to host him at the House of Commons when he reached London, which he did on Monday.

Mr Elphicke, who introduced Mr Nock to his fellow MPs Penny Mordaunt (who represents Portsmouth North) David Rutley (Macclesfield) and Thomas Brake (Carshalton and Warrington), said: “Christian walked through Dover and Deal and won the hearts of our community. It was a real privilege to host him in Parliament. He is a hero.

“He talked movingly about how hard life can be for former soldiers. How so many find it hard to adjust to civilian life and homelessness is a problem for many.

“His plea was that we give greater priority to housing and healthcare for our veterans. I feel he’s right and I’m making his case in Parliament."
To make donations to Mr Nock’s appeal, go to his Facebook page Christian Around Britain.