Navy pals reunite after more than 25 years

Navy pals reunite on Forces Reunited 25 years after serving together during the Falklands conflict, have been raising money for charity through running and cycling events. Falklands veterans Chris Warner and Stephen Jopling, who hadn’t spoken since they served together in 1982 are living proof that lasting friendships can be made at sea. Now aged 56, father of two Chris was surprised to hear from ex pal Stephen a few years ago. Stephen, his boss during active service, contacted him through the site, the pals worked in the same department on board HMS Plymouth and became firm friends. Almost 35 years ago their ship was attacked by five aircraft and Chris sustained a serious injury when a piece of metal went directly into his head, smashing his skull and entering his brain. In 2006 a titanium plate was fitted into Chris’s skull, but despite the injury, which still affects him today Chris is determined to remain active.

In 2015 and 2016 Steve and Chris took part in a running and cycling challenge to raise money for charity. The Active Northumberland Kielder Run Bike Run consists of an 11k run followed by a 25k bike ride and ending with a 6k run, Chris did the cycling and Stephen did the running. The first year the pair took part in the challenge they finished an amazing sixth overall, and in 2016 they raised £1,300 for Tyndale Hospice.

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