A weekend of events at the Redoubt Fortress, Eastbourne

By Veronica Payne

Veterans' Awareness Weekend Friday 27th - Sunday 29th June

The Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum, hosted a weekend of free events to celebrate Veteran's Awareness Day on June 27th.  The events were organised by The Redoubt Fortress, WRVS and Combined ex-Services Association and celebrated the contribution made by Veterans and raised awareness of veterans issues.

The programme began on 27th June with a Drumhead Service led by the Rev Howard John. There was an inspection of the Standards by the Mayor, Greg Szanto, and a presentation of Veterans badges by Nigel Waterson MP. The guests of honour were Sue Smith and Naomi Wort, the two ladies behind the Thank the Forces organisation which send out parcels to service men and women in Afghanistan and Iraq. The collection during the Drumhead service raised nearly £300 which was spent on items for gift boxes to be sent to British troops.

In the afternoon, the Johnny Spice Swing Orchestra entertained the visitors with their lively big band sound, giving a fantastic afternoon of music and dancing.

On Saturday the Ragroof Theatre led a tea dance of music from the 1920s, '30s and '40s. The Ragroof dancers were on hand to help anyone who didn't know the steps, so everyone was able to join in and have a wonderful day.

In the Mood entertained everyone with their 1940s Swing dance and sing a long. Everyone enjoyed taking part in this brilliant afternoon of singing and dancing.

Photographs by Lee Osbourne (bubblylee@hotmail.co.uk)