January 2006
THE ROYAL STAR & GARTER HOME CELEBRATES ITS 90TH BIRTHDAY
Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra was guest of honour when The Royal Star & Garter Home for disabled ex-Service men and women, Richmond, celebrated its 90th anniversary last Saturday. Over 200 guests, including residents, staff, supporters and volunteers, enjoyed a special concert followed by a celebratory tea.
The Princess, who is President of the famous Home on Richmond Hill, was greeted by the Mayor of Richmond, Councillor Robin Jowit on the Home’s forecourt where two mounted Troopers of the Household Cavalry were on duty, adding a touch of ceremonial splendour to the occasion.
The Home’s Chairman, Vice Admiral Sir John Dunt, then introduced special guests including Marshal of the Royal Air Force, Lord Craig of Radley and Falklands veteran Simon Weston, both Vice Presidents of the Home, Group Captain Graham Norris, Chairman of the “Lest We Forget” Association who sponsored the day, and Mr Stephen Williams, President of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, whose organisation provided the original building for the Home back in 1916.
The party proceeded to the Queen’s Room where they were greeted by a Fanfare performed by Trumpeters of the Band of the Blues and Royals. Her Royal Highness then spent some time chatting to residents, their families and other guests before taking her seat for the concert.
Following a welcoming speech by the Chairman, the concert, featuring The Band of the Blues and Royals led by Major Douglas Robertson, picked up the 1916 theme and included a section of Old Tyme Music Hall performed by Carol Wells and her company. The Grand Finale included The Royal Star & Garter March and a rousing rendition of “Jerusalem” led by Mezzo- Soprano Jane Webster.
After thanking Major Robertson, the Band and the Music Hall artistes, Her Royal Highness returned to the main hall and signed the visitors’ book before departing.
Residents, staff and guests then adjourned to the King’s Room where they enjoyed a splendid tea and music provided by the String Quintet of the Band of the Blues & Royals.
Vice President of the Home, Simon Weston, gave a short address in which he thanked all the guests who had attended and asked for their continued support as the Charity moves into the next stage of its history. Simon then led the gathering in a chorus of “Happy Birthday” before cutting the 90th anniversary cake, made by staff in the Home’s kitchen, with the help of a ceremonial sword provided by the Bandmaster of the Blues & Royals.
About the Royal Star & Garter Charity
The Royal Star & Garter Home, an independent registered charity based in Richmond, has been caring for disabled ex-Service personnel since 1916. The Charity offers the best in nursing and residential care plus a range of therapies. There are also a wide variety of leisure activities available for our residents to enjoy, both inside and outside the Home. In future years, The Royal Star & Garter Charity intends to build new homes, in the Richmond area and elsewhere, in which to provide specialist care for the elderly disabled, and for those with dementia for whom there is very little provision at present.
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FURTHER INFO: Rebecca Spencer, Marketing & Communications Co-ordinator TEL: 020 8439 8118 or EMAIL: rebecca.spencer@starandgarter.org