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Marc Ireland

Grimsby is a town built on community, hard work, and resilience - qualities that Marc Ireland embodies through his dedication to the people around him. From his years of service as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) to his current role at The Warrior Programme, Marc’s passion for supporting both the community and veterans shines through in everything he does.

At the time of his Grimbarian nomination, Marc was working as a PCSO for Humberside Police on the East Marsh Ward, a role that allowed him to make a direct impact on his community. Now, he has transitioned into an exciting new position with The Warrior Programme, where he provides vital support for veterans battling PTSD, anxiety, and depression.


Marc is the East of England Coordinator for The Warrior Programme, an organisation that supports veterans with their mental health across the whole of the United Kingdom. Additionally, The Warrior Programme conducts a residential week once a month in Corsham, Wiltshire, where participants spend three days working on coping mechanisms. Meditation is a key part of their ongoing support, helping veterans build resilience and manage stress effectively.


“Early intervention work in the community. Working with partnership agencies to make the community safe and helping the children in the area thrive in their goals,” Marc explains. His efforts have led to numerous community projects, each one designed to make a real difference.


Marc has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving lives in Grimsby. He has collaborated with organisations like the NSPCC and spearheaded the Bike Project, teaching looked-after children how to fix and ride bikes safely. Recognising the need for more youth engagement, he partnered with fellow Grimbarian Bailey Clark of Be Great Fitness to establish family and teen boxing sessions at Grant Thorold Park to help combat anti-social behavior.


Marc’s work extended into local schools through the Mini Police program, which encouraged students to take pride in their community and make positive choices. This initiative even inspired parents to request a local football team - leading to the formation of Grant Thorold Junior Football Club, a grassroots team run by the community for the community.


His commitment to social outreach didn’t stop there. Teaming up with Grimbarian Sam Delaney and Creative Start, Marc played a key role in art-based recovery projects, helping those struggling with addiction to express themselves through murals. His artistic contributions can be seen across town, from the GTFC Fan Zone to Immingham’s 100-Year Forces Wall and Freeman Street’s Great Wall.

As a veteran himself, Marc has a deep-rooted passion for supporting fellow servicemen and women. He played a key role in Humberside Police’s *Operation Nova*, a program focused on preventing veterans from entering the justice system. His leadership as the Armed Forces Covenant lead helped drive the force to Gold Standard recognition, ensuring better support for veterans in North East Lincolnshire.


Marc’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He was awarded the 2024 Civic Award for Veterans in the Community, received multiple policing commendations, and was named PCSO of the Year. His work also earned him the 2024 Community Care Freemason Award—an honor he deeply values as a passionate Freemason committed to raising funds for those in need.


Ask Marc what Grimsby means to him, and his response is immediate: Home.


“There’s no better place to be. I’ve seen most of the world through the forces, holidays, and expeditions, but nothing beats driving over the rise at Irby on the A46 and seeing the Dock Tower in the distance. Grimsby is a friendly town with so much history and proper hardworking people who get stuck in,” he says. And, of course, it’s home to the best football team and fish and chips - UTM!


As part of NEL4HEROES, Marc works with an incredible team of veterans providing peer-to-peer support, helping to prevent isolation, and improving access to mental health resources. The organisation partners with agencies like Navigo and Grimsby Town FC, offering mental health support on match days, as well as running Brew and Banter sessions, free veterans' breakfasts, and support groups.


“Our veterans are often too proud to ask for help,” Marc explains. “We want to make sure they know we’re here for them.”


Looking ahead, Marc envisions a dedicated central hub in Grimsby where veterans and their families can find year-round support, activities, and a safe, warm space. He hopes to see NEL4HEROES grow into a well-recognised force, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the care and respect they deserve.


With his unwavering commitment and the support of his community, there’s no doubt that Marc Ireland will continue to make Grimsby a better place for all.

Portrait proudly sponsored by...

Marc Ireland

Sandra Stewart

Paul Robinson

Joanne Wright BCAh

Wendy Freeman

Chelsy Hutton

Alan Burley

Jason Stockwood

Dale Mackie

Mark Hodson

Nicola Pattison

Bailey Greetham Clark

Jay Burton

Billy Dasein

Jordan Brompton

Kath and Ken Homewood

James Elliot

James Mckeown

Ruchita Green

Zane Powles

Alexandra Powlett

Julia Thompson

Glenys Woodhead

Emma Lingard

Duffy Sheardown

Lauren Little

Jack Grant

Zoe Proctor

Tina Brocklebank

Dave Berry

Patrick Hawes

Alexis Powell Howard

Nic Till

Richard Askam

Kirsty Douglas

Grace Robinson

Charlotte Hay

David Wrightam

Sam Delaney

Mike Burton

Charlotte Bowen

Andy Carr

Shaz Shadan & Will Douglas

Ian Macdonald

Lacie Stembridge

Mike Cartwright

Sammy Cartwright

Lucy Partington

Andrew Jones

Steve Bennett

Brenda Fisher

Garry Bainbridge

Jessica Townsend

Toni Ann Buckle Weavers

Austin Mitchell

Zac Shaw

Ash Taylor

Abbie Dewhurst

Christine Plant MBE

Paul 'Skip' Garnett

Mark Webb

John Ellis

Liz Parry

Linda Dellow

Daniella Draper

Jason Munro

Lloyd Griffith
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