Veterans treated to musical afternoon by Blind Veterans UK

Veterans in Dorchester recently enjoyed an afternoon of music and refreshments at a roadshow event. Organised by Blind Veterans UK, the event was open to all ex-soldiers who were born before January 1st, 1950.

The event, which was supported by Music in Hospitals, featured a performance by the Dorset-based band, Willow and Thorn. In all, the afternoon saw veterans travelling from a number of areas to take part in the entertainment. 

As well as enjoying music, tea and refreshments, veterans were also visited by the deputy mayor of Dorchester Robin Potter, as well as several local organisations and military charities, which set up stalls. These included the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA), the Royal British Legion and Dorset Partnership for Older People Programme (POPP).

The event was one of many that are set to be hosted by Blind Veterans UK across the UK following a grant from the Aged Veterans Fund. Each event is intended to reach out to all veterans and not just those who are visually-impaired.

Although Blind Veterans UK supports all veterans, no matter when they served, the fund is intended to help support to national service and armed forces vets. 

Steve Rowland-Jones, chief executive of Music in Hospitals, said: “Music in Hospitals is thrilled to receive support this year from the Aged Veterans Fund, allowing us to bring our therapeutic live music concerts to the ex-service community.

“This funding will create joy for thousands of older veterans who may not otherwise have access to high-quality live music. We are delighted to be working with Blind Veterans UK, which helps us to reach a wider audience of veterans living in the community.”

Other events will be hosted soon, with Annabel Venn, aged veterans fund project manager at Blind Veterans UK, saying that those who would like to attend or know people that want to go to future events but have transport issues should contact her on [email protected].