Invictus Games flag unveiled on Tyneside as veterans sail around the entire UK
A collaboration between a sailing charity for military veterans and the Invictus Games founded by Prince Harry has arrived on Tyneside
A team of military veterans arrived on Tyneside this weekend as part of an epic challenge ahead of the 2027 Invictus Games. The initiative, pioneered by Prince Harry back in 2014, will take place in Birmingham next year.
But before that, the Invictus Games banner is being taken around the UK by tall ship - and the team of veterans carrying it have spent the weekend on the Tyne. Speaking from HMS Calliope on the Gateshead Quayside, army veteran of 12 years Paul Miller from charity Turn to Starboard, has played a key role skippering one of the boats.
The ex-army figure, who is from the Falmouth himself, told ChronicleLive how the charity uses sailing to support wounded, injured and sick forces veterans. He said: "Our sailing veterans are those who have are wounded, injured, or sick, or otherwise affected by their military life. We don't offer treatment, but we provide the supportive environment. Whether that's through the sailing - and the learning - or just being able to take someone out on the water. It's about being part of a team again.
"Another aim is support raising awareness of the Invictus Games 2027 and Turn to Starboard. It's about spreading the word and getting the exposure. For us as veterans the Invictus Games is about how veterans who may have been injured still showcase what can be achieved."
He explained that different veterans had different reasons for taking part - but that the ethos of the Invictus Games was an incredibly inspiring one. Paul, skipper of the Spirit of Falmouth, added: "Being part of this expedition fills me with real pride. It has reminded me how far I’ve come in my own recovery and how much further we can all go together. Sailing the Invictus Games Flag around the UK is deeply meaningful. It represents courage, determination and community - values that we must hold on to after military service ends.”
“Taking the Invictus Flag on this journey feels especially meaningful. It carries the hopes of so many people rebuilding their lives through courage and community. Seeing Turn to Starboard and the Invictus Games come together in this way is powerful – every mile we sail, and every donation raised, helps build resilience and support the veteran community."
The challenge has been christened Full Circle and is running as part of the Invictus Games' "Impact programme". On Monday, veterans part of the challenge, serving Royal Navy personnel, and armed forces cadets met as part of an event to show the Invictus flag.
Sally Terry, chief executive of Turn to Starboard said: “This expedition brings together two organisations committed to empowering veterans through challenge, camaraderie and community, each united in the belief that adventure can be truly transformative.
“While Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 harnesses the spirit of sport to inspire recovery and rehabilitation, Turn to Starboard draws on the unique challenges of life at sea to rebuild confidence, restore purpose and help veterans navigate life with intention and fulfilment.
“More than a voyage, this expedition is a powerful story of courage, service and renewal, showing how adventure and the sea can heal, inspire and bring people together. We can’t wait to bring this inspiring message to Newcastle reach more veterans and highlight their challenges and remarkable achievements."
Captain Lee Hazard RN, Director of Special Projects, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 said: "With the Invictus Games Flag onboard, these remarkable veterans led by Turn to Starboard will utilise their military skills to sail with purpose and skill. Full Circle shows that recovery doesn’t only happen on the field of play - it happens through challenge, connection and community.
"As we build towards Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, the Full Circle Expedition is helping the nation see the strength and resilience of those who serve today and those who have served before them."
To find out more about Turn to Starboard and follow the progress of the Invictus flag, click here.