Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust's very own big bus has been out in Reading's town centre for Armed Forces Week, not offering election hustings but offering support and health checks.

The community is invited down today (June 29) between 8am and midday to meet the team of health professionals from OpCourage, OpRestore and the Royal Berkshire Hospital 'MEET PEET' (patient experience engagement team).

OpCourage and OpRestore are part of a wider health support network for military veterans and reserves across Berks, Bucks, Hants, IoW, Kent, Ox, Surrey and Sussex.

The groups have joined forces with a host of other support groups to head out into the town centre and chat to locals, including the Armed Forces community.

The big blue NHS bus has been parked up outside Reading Train Station this week and is back today (June29) to offer free health checks and support.

As part of Armed Forces Week, the team has met with many community members including Armed Forces families, serving military, veterans, and reservists.

Back today, visitors can expect to be able to speak to professionals for mental health support, physical health advice, as well as checks such as blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol checks, and blood sugar levels.

The bus is back in place from 8am to midday and open to anyone to go along for a chat, advice, or a full NHS health check.