One of the UK’s top sporting stadiums has joined ‘forces’ with the military in support of the Royal British Legion.
Newcastle United Football Club's St James’ Park is to host a Military Dinner on 2 March 2017, to raise funds for the charity, which provides lifelong support for the Armed Forces community - serving men and women, veterans and their families.
The dinner, which is also being supported by the Ministry of Defence, is the brainchild of the stadium’s catering partner Sodexo Prestige Venues & Events.
Its aim is to give businesses and individuals the chance to show their appreciation for the work of the armed forces and is already set to be one of the most impressive and glittering events in the stadium’s social calendar.
The four course meal will be served in traditional MESS format, with traditions such as the passing of the port and toasts to HM The Queen and guests will include serving members of the Fifth Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in full dress uniform.
The guest speaker at the Military Dinner will be former 42 Commando Royal Marines Medic and face of The British Legion Poppy Appeal, Cassidy Little, who lost his leg in an IED blast in Afghanistan in 2011.
After leaving the army Cassidy took the lead role in the first highly successful UK tour of The Two Worlds of Charlie F, working with Sir Trevor Nunn and Ray Winstone on the Bravo 22 play about soldiers' experiences after injury, with a cast of real military personnel.
“This event is our way of showing our appreciation for our armed services,” said Samantha Doyle, sales and marketing manager for Sodexo at St James’ Park.
“It promises to be a fantastic event and, by supporting it, guests will also be supporting the superb work of the Royal British Legion.”