The Conservative MP for East Devon has met Ben Curry MBE at 10 Downing Street to congratulate him becoming the Royal Marines Charity (RMA)'s new CEO.

Simon Jupp met Mr Curry on Tuesday, September 12. 

The RMA is based at the Lympstone Commando Training Centre, the principle training centre for the Royal Marines.

Originally established in 1946, the RMA charity supports veterans and their families across the country by helping with accommodation, mental health services and more.

In July, Mr Curry was appointed as the charity's CEO after serving for the Royal Marines for an impressive 23 years.

This role was awarded to him for his diligent hard work in planning and strategising several UK humanitarian operations in Africa. 

During a special reception celebrating the work of veterans hosted by Johnny Mercer MP, Minister of State for Veterans’ Affairs, Mr Jupp praised the RMA for its tireless work.

This includes the charity’s successful ‘Lifting the Lid’ campaign, improving access to mental health support for marines and their families.

He said:  “It was fantastic to meet with Ben in 10 Downing Street and congratulate him on his recent appointment as CEO.

“Our part of Devon is a truly special and peaceful place – we owe an incalculable amount of thanks to the veterans who have helped keep it that way by putting themselves forward to protect our country.

“The charity continues to do amazing work and, along with this government’s steadfast commitment to veteran welfare, will continue to change lives for the better.”

Mr Curry said: “It was fantastic to hear such encouraging words from the minister (Mr Mercer), especially with regards to the government’s support for the veteran community, in particular, that accommodation is available for homeless veterans so that no one needs to be living on the streets.

“The charity endorses this wholeheartedly.

“Although I am relatively new into post, I’ve quickly come to appreciate the great work that is being done for veterans across the board from grassroots right up to the highest levels of government.

“I’m immensely proud to be at the helm of the charity and to be able to play a part in it offering lifelong support to the entire Corps family.”