SKDC News: 7 October 2024
A high-profile concert in Grantham this month will commemorate the 80th anniversary of Arnhem – Operation Market Garden.
The concert on Friday 25 October in St Wulfram’s Church features the Band of the Welsh Guards.
It follows the band’s key role in the State Funeral of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The Welsh Guards were then selected to troop their Colour for the first King’s Birthday Parade in more than 70 years.
40’s singer Melody Flyte will be a soloist and lead the community singing.
South Kesteven District Council is supporting the Army Benevolent Fund fund-raising concert as part of the council’s military heritage programme.
The evening will highlight little known aspects, such as how men that Lt Richard Adams fought alongside at Arnhem became the inspiration for the rabbits in his book Watership Down.
St Wulfram’s chorister Iona Williams (13) a pupil at Kesteven and Grantham Girl’s School, will be singing Bright Eyes from the film of Watership Down.
A Parachute Regiment representative will also read a ‘Dear Mum’ letter written by a soldier who did not survive the battle.
Cllr Rhea Rayside, SKDC Cabinet member for People and Communities said: “What a wonderful way to commemorate this unforgettable military milestone and our District’s role with an evening of reflection and dulcet music.
“Our District hosted paratroopers of three nations, Britain, Poland and America, in the build up to the battle, and that heritage should never be forgotten.”
Cllr Richard Dixon-Warren, SKDC Armed Forces Champion said; “We are extremely proud to be supporting the ABF Lincolnshire committee with its concert, which promises to be an unmissable evening commemorating our unique connections.
“We encourage you to come and show your support”.
Tickets are bookable from the Guildhall Arts Centre in Grantham.
