New Armed Forces Community Centre Welcomes Stakeholders and Veterans in Wisbech

The new Armed Forces Community Centre in York Row, Wisbech, a joint venture between the Wisbech Royal British Legion branch and the Wisbech Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club, opened its doors on the 9th of September 2026 to dignitaries, members of the Armed Forces community, veterans, local businesses, and community organisations.

The stakeholder engagement event celebrated the launch of the centre, shared its vision for the future, and showcased the facilities and services it will provide for the local Armed Forces community. The premises used is the former Etcetera shop linked to the Post Office in Wisbech and has been kindly offered free of charged for an interim period by building owner Ray and Jan Wicks.

Guests were welcomed by Toby North, the Centre Lead, who spoke passionately about the importance of creating a dedicated space for serving personnel, veterans, and their families across Fenland. Outlining the centre’s ambitions, Toby highlighted that Fenland is home to 4,440 veterans, according to the 2021 Census, and noted that Wisbech’s location close to the Norfolk and Lincolnshire borders means the centre is likely to support visitors from well beyond Cambridgeshire.

The event also heard from Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Col Mark Knight MBE, Graham Clarke MBE, who supports Toby and the volunteer team while also serving as a trustee of the Norfolk-based charity Bridges for Heroes, and Pete Digby, Chair of the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Royal British Legion. Each speaker emphasised the importance of the centre in reducing isolation, strengthening the local Armed Forces community and providing practical support and opportunities for veterans and their families throughout Fenland and neighbouring counties.

Among those attending were Wisbech Town Mayor, Cllr Lucie Foice-Beard, Wisbech Town Council Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Nick Meekins, and Fenland District Council Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Sue Wallwork, demonstrating strong local support for the new community facility.
The Armed Forces Community Centre is now open Monday to Friday, 9.00am–5.00pm.

Visitors will find a range of military-themed books and memorabilia for sale alongside Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal merchandise. The centre also offers an extensive collection of information and support leaflets, helping members of the Armed Forces community access local and national services.
At the heart of the centre is its welcoming NAAFI area, a relaxed space where veterans, serving personnel and families can meet for a brew (or a “wet” for Royal Navy and Royal Marines visitors), enjoy conversation, build friendships, and seek support whenever it’s needed.

The Armed Forces Community Centre aims to become a lasting hub for camaraderie, wellbeing, and community support, serving the Armed Forces family in Fenland and beyond.