EX-Serviceman, Mark Isherwood, has been surprised with an unexpected action-packed family getaway by train company CrossCountry.
Mark, 27 from Warrington, served in Afghanistan in 2010 as a member of the Royal Engineers’ Counter Improvised Explosive Device Task Force.
Following his return from Afghanistan he was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Inspiring others
Since then Mark has turned his life around and is now working at SkillForce, a charity that draws upon the skills of ex-Servicemen to help inspire young people to succeed.
Clare Shufflebotham from CrossCountry was thrilled to see a hero rewarded. “When we heard about Mark’s story we were so inspired and wanted to do something really special for him,” she said.
As part a new campaign to make the most of today, CrossCountry and Mark’s family challenged him while working at a school in Liverpool – from parachuting with the renowned Red Devils to an outdoor adventure afternoon at Go Ape and even motor safari four-by-four driving – he tried it all!
A stunned Mark said: “When Dawn walked into the hall I had no idea what was going on! To then be told that I would be taken across the country to do all these brilliant things made my day.
“I had a fantastic time and I’d really like to thank all those involved, especially the surprise team at CrossCountry who made it all happen.”
Dawn, Mark’s wife, who recommended her husband for this spontaneous adventure, added: “I know how difficult the last few years have been for Mark so it was wonderful to be part of planning this surprise for him.
“Mark’s a real adrenaline junkie so I knew he’d love all of the activities planned for him.”
Visit www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/tickets-timetables/be-spontaneous for more information about their campaign.