Armed forces charity receives donation following VE/VJ80 civic event success

The civic event, which marked the 80^th anniversary of the Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan days, took place at Leeds Minster on May 10. Attracting over 400 guests, including dignitaries, veterans, and members of the public, ticket sales generated £1000 for the RBL. The event also saw the presentation of the Leeds Award to 102-year-old D-Day veteran, Jack Mortimer. The Leeds Award is a formal recognition by Leeds City Council which acknowledges individuals, organisations, or groups who have made outstanding contributions that benefit the city and its residents. It was presented to Jack for his lifelong commitment to veterans’ affairs and, fittingly, his fundraising work for the Royal British Legion. 

Above: Second World War Wren veteran, Eileen Marshall, singing with members of the Hummingbirds UK at the Civic Hall presentation.

The cheque presentation, which took place in the Civic Hall’s Ark Royal room, was made to the RBL’s Jonathan Calvert and Emma Osbourne by the new Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Dan Cohen. In attendance were many of those who spoke and performed at the civic event, along with councillors, Second World War veteran Eileen Marshall, and representatives from the businesses and organisations that donated goods and services to the event. 

Above: The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Dan Cohen, speaking to guests. 

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Dan Cohen, said: “The VE/VJ 80 civic event was not only a time to commemorate, remember, and reflect on those momentous days at the end of the Second World War 80 years ago. It was also an opportunity to have some fun and raise money for an incredible charity at the same time. 

“The Royal British Legion works tirelessly for all veterans of the armed forces and their families, so it was my great pleasure to present a cheque for the money raised through ticket sales to help them continue their important work.”

“I would also like to take the opportunity to give my thanks to all those people, organisations and companies who made the civic event so successful, especially my colleague, Councillor Jane Dowson, who spent many hours on the organisation. Without the donations from some fantastic local businesses, and the magnificent speakers and performers who made no charge for their time, goods, and services, the event would not have achieved such success.”