Stephen Metcalfe, local MP
for South Basildon and East Thurrock, joined other MPs, nuclear veterans, and
their descendents at the launch of the British Nuclear Test Veterans (BNTVA)
campaign for the official recognition of the contribution made by veterans of
the British nuclear testing programme.
The launch, sponsored
by fellow local MP, John Baron, also included artwork by artist Gary Bennett,
Kathrine Connery (the daughter of a test veteran), and members of the BNTVA.
Their work is inspired by the nuclear tests, and aims to portray the mental
anguish experienced by British nuclear test veterans and their descendants. It
depicts the mental trauma which many service personnel have experienced since
participating in the British nuclear tests. A larger exhibition, taking place
on Oxford Street and curated by the veterans themselves and their descendants,
will be on display next week.
Mr Metcalfe commented: “Nuclear test veterans deserve official recognition for
their unique contribution to the defence of our country. Their stories offer a
poignant reminder of the sacrifices the veterans made and the emotions they
endured, things perfectly captured in this exhibition.”
“I would encourage all
those who can see it to do so and I would urge my constituents to support their
very worthy campaign.”
Nige Heaps, Chairman of the BNTVA, said: “This is a fantastic start to our campaign. We have
received support from all parties, clearly showing that the recognition of the
contribution and suffering of our nuclear test veterans is rightly regarded as
an issue of national responsibility.”
“I look forward to the public launch of our Shadow of
the Bomb art exhibition, which will raise awareness of our campaign in the
public arena.”
