Members and guests of the Plymouth Area Business Council (PABC), along with our naval hosts, enjoyed a very special and memorable evening commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day on Friday 9 May, in the prestigious surroundings of the Wardroom at HMS Drake.
SCROLL DOWN to browse through all the pictures from an unforgettable event, courtesy of John Allen.
The weather played its part by enabling us to appreciate the skill and precision of the Drum & Bugle Corps outside the Mess in the evening sunshine, before moving back inside to hear some moving words from Paul Montgomery.
Paul made us all think about what it really meant to the population of this country when war was finally declared over, words which were made even more poignant by the personal reflection on that day from 100 year-old Suzanne Sparrow. Her key message to us today was ‘enjoy your freedom’.
Our Dinner President, Craig Moore, welcomed everyone and reminded us all of the purpose of PABC in doing Good Business, on making a positive impact on all areas of the Plymouth economy and wider community, and leaving a lasting legacy for the next generation.
The dining room, always impressive and steeped in history (Sir Francis Drake’s original sword was on display on the top table) looked resplendent with bunting, red, white and blue candles and an empty table place setting to represent those who did not return from the war. The Bishop of Plymouth, Rt Rev James Grier, followed this theme in his Grace.
As always, the food was delicious and the service exceptional. Conversations flowed as people caught up or got to know each other and made new connections, while in the balcony we were serenaded by the wonderful Annie-River with appropriate 1940s swing music.
After dinner our special guest, Sarah Howard MBE, Chair of British Chambers of Commerce, spoke passionately about how businesses can learn a lot from the resilience and tenacity of those who fought for our freedom, and the role that the British Chambers played at the time, especially with the Naval community.
She reminded everyone of BCC’s commitment to backing and supporting our local businesses to ensure we continue to make the most of opportunities.
Our very special thanks go to Cdr Maxine Burgess, Mess President, and her team who gave us such a warm welcome. We are also very grateful to our Dinner Partner Womble Bond Dickinson and VE Day Partner Sir Fix-a-Lock, without whom this event would not have been as successful.
If you would like to order any of the pictures below, please contact John Allen via his website.
