Libyan mission for The BFF

4th October 2011

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The British Forces Foundation (The BFF) has put on a show for RAF personnel who have been taking part in the NATO air strikes over Libya. Comedians Jim Davidson OBE and Kev Orkian were in outstanding form entertaining a 300-strong audience at their base in Bari, southern Italy. "The show gave everybody a real lift," said BFF Director Mark Cann,"and demonstrated to the guys that all their efforts are recognised and they haven't been forgotten."

The morning after the show, The BFF party visited the Gioia del Colle Air Base to meet other RAF personnel involved in the NATO mission. Praising both Jim and Kev, Gary Hastie wrote on the British Forces Foundation's Facebook page: "I was there last night and it was a fantastic night, thankyou to the both of you." And Jules Powell wrote: "It was very good of you both to give up your time to gome and entertain us, what a great night." Emma Witcherley also commented: "My husband is currently serving in Italy. So good to see Jim out there supporting them the other night. Shame the families back in the UK don't get the support. " The BFF, which was founded by Jim Davidson, puts on shows in operational theatres all over the world, primarily through high quality entertainment with big name stars. It is also creative and contemporary in numerous other award-winning projects designed to bring the public and their Armed Forces closer together. The shows and other projects – paid for by donations – convey the gratitude of the British public for the work of the Armed Forces and the sacrifices they make. Commanding Officer 906 Expeditionary Air Wing, Group Captain Pete Squires, wrote: "Since the implementation of the United Nation's decision to support military intervention in March this year we have been deployed on continuous operations as part of the United Kingdom's contribution. That momentum has been carried on through the changes of several operational squadrons and without degradation to the operational output. We can only achieve that by a continuus and relentless focus, which brings with it a personal cost for those deployed. The British Forces Foundation show, however, served as a much needed tonic to the hard working team at Gioia. The show has been the talk of the deployment." Gallery