Royal Marines Association cheque

27th August 2007

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THE British Forces Foundation Founder Jim Davidson OBE received a £3,000 cheque on behalf of the Charity when he was performing in Edinburgh in August.

Jim was at the Edinburgh Playhouse recording his latest DVD The Devil Rides Out and among the audience were 400 BFF-invited guests with military connections.

The fantastic donation was the result of an event, organised by Matt Jones, marking the 20th anniversary of the Royal Marines Association, Edinburgh Branch.

This gathering of Royal Marines, young and old, from all over the country was a spectacular event in August onboard the RFA Mounts Bay in Edinburgh. The guest of honour for the occasion was His Excellency the Governor of Gibraltar, Lieutenant General Sir Robert Fulton KBE RM. Among the guests was Sir Jimmy Savile OBE.

The evening began with an unarmed combat display from the Royal Marines Reserve, Scotland, followed by the ceremonial music display, 'Beat Retreat' by Her Majesty's Royal Marines' Band, Scotland. At the end of the ceremony, Sir Robert poignantly presented seven Royal Marines with their campaign medals for recent service in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Guests were shown The BFF showreel which was followed by the fund-raising auction led by Association President, Brigadier Ian Gardiner. Among the lots was a very special 26 year old single malt ‘Ben Nevis’ whisky donated by Sir Jimmy Savile OBE. This lot was sold for £1,000 – bought back by Sir Jimmy!

The essence of this gathering was a clear demonstration of the strong bond and camaraderie that exists between Britain's active and retired servicemen and women. Ex-service personnel play a very important role of support today, as was demonstrated last Christmas whilst 45 Commando were on active duty in Afghanistan when the RMA’s overwhelming support of the shoe-box appeal almost broke the back of the postal system!

The British Forces Foundation would like to say a huge thank you and pay tribute to the hard work of Matt Jones and the event committee including Shirley Sime, Chris and Jackie Moyers and Brig Ian Gardiner.