History of Southwest Scotland RnR

How it Began

Jennefer Tobin was inspired to do something for soldiers injured in battle when she heard Colonel Stuart Tootal being interviewed. Colonel Tootal was commander of 3 PARA Battle Group, the first British unit sent, in 2006, to Helmand province in Afghanistan.

It was hoped by some when they left for Helmand the peace support mission would be completed without a shot being fired. The reality was very different with over 479,000 rounds of ammunition fired during 3 PARA's six month tour of duty. Fifteen of the Battle Group were killed with a further 46 wounded in action.

"When I heard him speak I understood just what a really bad time they'd had," Jennefer Tobin explained. "When they were sent in they weren't expecting a fight and were not prepared for the level of combat they met. I thought, 'these boys need a holiday'. I looked round - I have space here and this whole area is a wonderful playground with all kinds of outdoor activities on offer."

Jennefer approached everyone she thought might be able to help. Her late father's regiment, the 2nd Punjab, gave a generous donation to start with. "Their generosity has been immense," said Jennefer. "After a lunch, an officer in his 80s presented me with a cheque for £1,000. So many of the have suffered and are very glad to have to opportunity to help." Many others [link to thank you page] gave donations in cash or kind. South West Scotland RnR is now a registered charity and Jennefer has built up a team of hard working and dedicated supporters.

Jennefer talked to service personnel about her project, which is now a registered charity, and in January 2009 the first group - 40 Commando Royal Marines, accompanied by with Colour Sgt 'Whiskey' Grounsell, arrived in south west Scotland.

Between then and the end of 2010, 170 men have been to stay for a week in Dumfries & Galloway. From the Royal Marine Commandoes there have been 90, 20 from the Parachute regiment, 10 from 3rd Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland, The Black Watch, 20 3rd Riflemen, 20 from the Coldstream Guards and 10 from Not Forgotten.