Katherine Jenkins Visits Selly Oak

22nd August 2007

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BRITISH Forces Foundation Trustee Katherine Jenkins made a morale-boosting visit to the military ward at Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham.

The Welsh star, who has already visited troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, chatted to injured servicemen and their families, and handed out signed CDs.

“I heard about the military ward and I wanted to show my support,” explained Katherine.

The British Forces Foundation Director Mark Cann said it was not a visit the Charity wished to seek publicity from but he paid tribute to hospital staff, patients and to Katherine.

"Having been to Afghanistan and Iraq with The BFF it was interesting to see how much credibility Katherine had with those she visited," he said. "She and the patients had a lot of fun.

"What struck me was the terrific spirit of those there. Most importantly, there's no doubt, when these people get back to England they do receive the very best medical care that this country has to offer.

"The effectiveness of the treatment they receive is nothing short of miraculous and is a tremendous tribute to all those responsible for the care of those young servicemen and women who deserve nothing less."

Mr Cann added: "Selly Oak has been much talked about in the press and indeed used unfairly, in my opinion, as a political football. During my short visit I neither saw nor heard of any issue and the only complaint, if you like, was one of boredom which is an unfortunate consequence of being in hospital for a long period of time. But, again, the provision of welfare facilities was excellent."

This was The Briitish Forces Foundation's second visit to the hospital and it is hoped that there will be many more.