Don War Memorial Museum and Community Hub Faces Operational Challenges Due to Disrepair

The Don War Memorial Museum and Community Hub, a facility recognized for its role in assisting veterans, is currently facing operational challenges due to its deteriorating condition. Julie Cooper, the 60-year-old who manages this hub in Thornaby, Stockton-on-Tees, which serves as a secure environment for armed forces personnel and the broader public, has been praised by a veteran who stated: “Without a doubt, she’s saved people’s lives” for the help and support she offers. Ms. Cooper reported that the Cranworth Street premises is experiencing issues with its roof, drains, and a flooding cellar. Despite the extensive list of necessary repairs, she affirmed that she would “never pack in now”. The building houses a bar named The Last Post on its lower level and a museum on its upper level. It contains thousands of donated memorabilia items, encompassing everything from World War One medals to prosthetic legs. Ms. Cooper stated that she entered into a 30-year self-repair lease for the site, which includes a five-year exit clause, allowing her the option to vacate in 2025. She remarked, “I need to decide what’s going to happen.” Mike Scott, a veteran diagnosed with PTSD, explained that this facility was the only place where he felt comfortable sitting with his “back to the door”, thereby alleviating any sense of “a threat”. The 64-year-old joined the armed forces at the age of 16. Subsequently, he worked in the prison service before being medically retired in 2018. He shared, “I was suicidal.” He attributes the hub with saving his life, recounting that Ms. Cooper observed him in the bar’s corner and secured a promise from him to visit weekly. Currently, Mr. Scott serves as the museum’s curator and is summoned to the hub when individuals are experiencing distress. He commented, “Her place is very special to anyone. We don’t turn anyone away.” Ms. Cooper expressed her resolve to maintain the museum’s operation, but indicated that it requires a “permanent home”. She stated, “The veterans spend the rest of their lives with us. Once they come here, that’s it.” She added, “I’ve sat and cried with them, I’ve listened to their stories. I’ve got so much respect for them. It’s just given me such a driving passion.” Ms. Cooper mentioned that the hub operates under the motto: “you’re only a stranger until you come through the front door, and then you’re family”. Readers can follow BBC Tees on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites and provides information on its approach to external linking.