**Iraq Veteran Rides Around UK to Support Ex-Service Personnel with PTSD**
A former soldier from Wales is undertaking an extraordinary mission to support fellow veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Allen Stokes, aged 54, is currently cycling the length of the British coastline to raise funds for a facility dedicated to helping former service personnel recover from the often-devastating effects of trauma.
Allen, affectionately dubbed “Tiny” by his friends despite his imposing physical presence, has a personal understanding of the battles many veterans face once their military careers end. He served in Iraq in 1991 and escaped the conflict without visible wounds. However, his experiences left deep mental scars, resulting in two decades of PTSD which led him into homelessness and periods of severe despair.
He reflected candidly on his journey, explaining, “I had my own business, a full-time job, a home. But when PTSD struck, I lost everything and ended up on the streets for 20 years.” During this trying period, Allen found himself navigating various cities, including Aberystwyth, seeking solace and a new direction in life. At his lowest, his mental health deteriorated to the point of a suicide attempt, from which he had to be resuscitated.
The turning point came when Allen received supportive intervention and began to explore meditation. Although this provided some relief, he acknowledged that he continued to feel stuck. It was embarking on his first cycling adventure around Great Britain around seven years ago—a journey that ultimately spanned two years and helped raise £9,000 for charity—that helped him find a renewed sense of purpose.
On his current odyssey, Allen is not alone. Accompanying him is his loyal companion Rocco, a dog who has become an essential part of his support network, along with his didgeridoo, an instrument he credits with helping him manage stress while on the road. According to Allen, “Rocco keeps me from pushing myself too hard…I have to think of his little legs. At night, if I’m having a flashback, Rocco wakes me. He senses when I’m not well, puts a paw on me, and it comforts me.”
Allen’s goal is ambitious but clear: to buy a piece of land on Anglesey and establish a camp, “Petis Pas” (French for “small steps”), offering sanctuary and therapy for veterans living with PTSD. The land, currently on offer from one of his supporters, is valued at around £22,000. So far, through determination and the support of well-wishers, Allen has raised more than £13,000 after clocking up over 700 miles in 11 months.
There is, however, a pressing deadline. Should the funding gap not be closed soon, the land will be put up for auction. Allen fears that if it falls to developers, his vision for a haven for those in need will be lost.
Despite the physical and emotional toll of his journey—struggling with asthma, arthritis, and the daily challenges of distance cycling—it is the encouragement from strangers that fuels Allen’s perseverance. “People cheer you on, drivers beep as they pass, and those moments keep you going. When you’re climbing a steep hill and can barely breathe, having someone shout words of support makes a world of difference,” he shared.
Allen hopes that by sharing his story, he can inspire others facing similar difficulties to seek help and never abandon hope. “I know exactly what it feels like to think there’s no way out. I want veterans and anyone suffering to know they are not alone and that change is possible. Don’t give up—reach out, because everyone is worthy.”
Allen’s campaign not only raises funds but also vital awareness about the mental health crises many former service personnel endure in silence. He is a poignant reminder that recovery can begin with determination and community support.
To contribute to Allen’s fundraiser and help secure the future site for “Petis Pas,” supporters are encouraged to donate online.
For anyone struggling with mental health, assistance is available through organisations such as Samaritans (call 116 123), PAPYRUS, and Mind, all of which offer confidential, non-judgmental support to those in need.