FORMER Armed Forces personnel, like Graeme Armour, will become a more familiar sight in UK hospitals.

Legislation comes into force next year requiring the public sector to give more opportunities to military veterans.

“I think we have a lot to offer the NHS in terms of organisational skills and a commitment to get the job done,” said Graham, who joined the Royal Marine Commandos as a teenager and served in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan during his 35-year career.

“I see clear similarities between the two organisations. Both have large workforces, are committed to helping people and often work in high pressure situations where people’s lives depend on them.”

The father of two, a programme director, would certainly come in handy if blizzards ever hit Ealing Hospital as he is an Arctic warfare and survival specialist.

The Veterans Covenant Programme also encourages NHS employees to consider becoming reservists in the Armed Forces.