Southampton rocks with drive-in concert
The Not Forgotten is a British Armed Forces charity which supports serving and ex-service men and women
Over 100 veterans and their guests enjoyed a Christmas party with a difference at The Not Forgotten ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ drive-in concert which took place at Southampton Airport
Article submitted for publication by Becky Roberts
Southampton Airport car park rocked to the sounds of a Christmas party with a difference as over 100 veterans and guests enjoyed the The Not Forgotten Jingle Bell Rock drive-in concert.
The Jingle Bell Rock concert offered a feast of activities including a singalong and hog roast providing a real boost to residents who have been struggling with loneliness and isolation during months of lockdown and ongoing tier restrictions.
The Not Forgotten is a British Armed Forces charity which supports serving and ex-service men and women. Their professional entertainment team performed a varied set including popular classics and festive favourites during their 12-date concert tour.
They aim to entertain, boost morale and lift lockdown spirits by reaching some 1300 of veterans across the UK.
To complete the Christmas party feel, a hog roast with all the trimmings was served to guests, enjoyed from the safety and warmth of their cars and the interactive games included ‘singo bingo’ and a numberplate raffle.
The drive-in concert was arranged in strict accordance with local and government Covid-19 guidelines. Each vehicle was parked at a specified distance from others, so veterans and those in their ‘bubble’, could get in the swing of things and dance the afternoon away in safety.
Brigadier James Stopford, CBE, CEO of The Not Forgotten said: “Sadly, so many events to commemorate VE Day, VJ Day and D Day could not take place properly this year and we’ve had to put our traditional Christmas parties for veterans on hold.
"But it is a year when we need to do more for those who have really felt the restrictions.
"So, we’ve improvised, adapted and overcome the obstacles and are bringing some much-needed cheer, fun and entertainment to those that have served our country by offering them some early Christmas celebrations.”
The Not Forgotten combats isolation and loneliness amongst the Armed Forces community through social activities and challenge holidays. If you are a serving or ex-member of the Armed Forces or you know of someone that could benefit from the help of The Not Forgotten, please get in touch by calling 0207 730 2400.
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