Concert and Dinner for Veterans Aid
On 17th January 2013, The Lady R Foundation held its second major event, this time in London. A concert and dinner was given at St John’s Smith Square to raise awareness of, and support for, Veterans Aid – a remarkable charity helping British and Commonwealth ex-servicemen and women in crisis, many of whom have lived on the street and who are struggling to cope with civilian life.
The evening was generously sponsored, and guests included VIPs and representatives from the armed services, government, emergency services and media, as well as Lady Rothermere’s personal friends and, most importantly, the veterans themselves. Fifty veterans from Veterans Aid attended and a number of Korean War veterans, including five Chelsea Pensioners, also attended.
Miss Angela Rippon, CBE compered the evening, which began with a powerful message of support from His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales. Speeches were made by The Dowager Viscountess Rothermere, Major General RV Searby, CB and John Bryant, the youngest ‘graduate’ from Veterans Aid.
Members from The Company of Pikemen & Musketeers lined the steps of St John’s as guests arrived and music was performed by the Paradisal Players, conducted by Samuel Burstin, and comprising some of the finest classical musicians from London’s top orchestras. Soloist, Ana Šinkovec, gave a moving performance of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No 2 in C Minor.
After a delicious three course dinner, the evening’s entertainment was rounded-off by special guests, The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, a world-renowned Scottish bagpipe rock band.
The intention for everyone present to join together and share the warmth and vibrant atmosphere of the occasion was clearly achieved, and thanks to the generosity of all our supporters, £100,000 was raised for Veterans Aid!
The Lady R Foundation hopes that the event helped to ‘open the door’ to the plight of our veterans and remains committed to raising significant funds for Veterans Aid and their critical work.
If you would like to make a donation to Veterans Aid, please follow the link: