Katie Melua headlines BFF show

8th December 2012

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The incredible Katie Melua headlined a special 'Royal Demand' British Forces Foundation show for the staff of Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.

Patron of the charity, HRH The Prince of Wales, had requested that The BFF convey the public's thanks for the extraordinary work of all those involved in looking after seriously injured troops flown back from the front line in Afghanistan.

The show, which followed on from the Junior Ranks Christmas dinner, took place on the same day that Prince Charles visited the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Although His Royal Highness was unable to  attend the show itself the BFF team met with him earlier in the day to keep him up to date with how preparations were progressing.

The evening got underway with a classy and festive feel courtesy of operatic quartet Amore who were followed by the hilarious Boy with the Tape on his Face ably assisted by various unsuspecting members of the audience. The comedy continued with the legendary John Moloney.

The climax of the show, kindly sponsored by Steve and Moira Norris, saw Katie Melua open her acoustic set with her global smash hit Closest Thing to Crazy. Although only due to perform three numbers, the crowd response and standing ovation meant Katie did an impromptu two more songs.

Wayne Barnes who was in the audience said: "The comedians were fantastic and Kate Melua, well what can I say, sublime. It warms the heart to think of all the support we receive from the public, and all those stars who are willing to give up their time to say 'thanks' to the Armed Forces."

And Oliver Hawksley wrote on Facebook: "Thank you very much for a superb evening of enjoyment - absolutely top class."

Padre Jonathan Daniel said: "All of the acts were excellent – it seemed as though we were having our own mini Royal Variety Show! I have spoken to many members of staff who have, without hesitation, spoken with great enthusiasm of the ‘treat’ we were all given. I suspect that there was much work needed to make it all happen – please be assured that it has made a real difference for us all."

The BFF would like to say a huge thank you to all the acts who performed for free.