A Moulton man who helped win aid for those affected by Cold War-era nuclear tests has appealed for assistance for his charity.
Douglas Hern (82), of Bell Lane, Moulton is the historian for the British Nuclear Test Veterans Association (BNTVA).
Douglas was seconded to Christmas Island aged 21 and was present at five British nuclear bomb tests.
“I could see the bones in my hands through my closed eyelids,” Douglas said of his blast experience. He has since been told he experienced the equivalent of 12,000 x-rays at once during each test.
Douglas lives with his wife Sandie, who is the Vice Chair of the BNTVA and takes care of all secretarial duties.
Their Moulton home has four phone lines and the calls rarely cease, as the couple work around the clock for the 1,000-strong members.
This dedication was a major factor in BNTVA’s campaign for access to the government’s Aged Veterans Fund a years ago.
“Funds have been made available for the likes of mobility scooters, wet rooms and stairlifts,” Douglas said of the campaign.
Despite unsuccessful appeals for compensation, BNTVA still campaigns for the families and descendents of people who suffered the effects of radiation exposure during the tests.
Douglas and Sandie tragically lost their 13-year-old daughter, Jill, they believe as a result of the exposure.
“In some families, four generations have now been affected,” Douglas said, mentioning the affiliated charity Fallout, set up by and for affected descendents.
“The experience never leaves you and the results never leave you,” Douglas added.
“We are duty-bound to look after any veterans and their families.”
Douglas has requested raffle prize donations for the group’s AGM in May.
To donate, call 01406 371134.
