We Did Remember Them.
On Friday 8th November we held our Poppy Ball at the Caves restaurant in Nerja on a beautiful evening which was surprisingly warm for the time of year and we were able to enjoy the sunset while enjoying canapés and drinks, before going in to the ballroom.
Over 110 people attended and before the meal we listened to moving accounts of On Flanders fields, by David Allen, and Poppies in Remembrance, by Marion Hunter.
The formalities over we went on to partake of a really tasty 5-course meal, wine and a complimentary cava. Music by Barry Marks and the Flying Dolphins soon had the dance floor bouncing. A super raffle made over 700 euros and judging by the comments, everyone seemed to have had a great evening.
Our thanks to The Nailbar, Jaipur Indian Restaurant, Pinocchio’s restaurant, Ozzies hairdresser, and the Boutique in Cómpeta for their kind donation of raffle prizes.
On Sunday 10th November we held our first commemoration of The Fallen in the lower salon at the Nerja Caves restaurant. When this was initially considered, we wondered if many people would be interested. However the turnout proved that there was a need for it and we were delighted that 160 people came to show their respect and gratitude to the victims of conflict from WW1.
It was a non-religious event, but very moving and all the comments made afterwards were complimentary and encouraging.
Thanks must go to David Graves, David and Dorothy Allen, Nick Ball, Mike Holt, Trevor Breach, Charlie Howe and Pat MacCowan, for their contributions to a memorable and poignant programme.
I was very honoured to provide the music, though I couldn’t have done it without the kind provision of the keyboard by Jo Burkey. We were particularly pleased to welcome Jim and Vera Bromley, who at 92 is our oldest veteran. Jim can be seen in the accompanying photograph wearing his newly acquired Arctic Convoy Medal. We have had such an encouraging response from so many people that we will more than likely repeat it next year.
All those who were staying for lunch enjoyed canapés and drinks on the terrace before going upstairs to the restaurant and 120 people enjoyed another flavoursome meal.
Our thanks go to Petra and the staff of the Nerja Caves restaurant who always look after us so well.
The raffle brought in over 400 euros, so once again we will be making a handsome contribution to the 2013 Poppy Appeal.
Our grateful thanks go to all who gave in whatever way. As always it is vital and gratefully received and will go to the coffers of The Royal British Legion to be used to support any serving or ex-service personnel and their families who need help. As the Chairman said in his address, ‘We do not celebrate or glorify war; we just pick up the pieces.’
Our next lunch is on the 6th December at Pena Parda in La Herradura (Bookings can be made through Eleanor Tel: 958 828 708 and our Christmas lunch is at Al Andalus Hotel in Maro on the 19th December (Bookings can be made through Marilyn Tel: 952 526 423. Anyone who is interested in joining us will be very welcome.
Dorothy Graves,
PR. Nerja Branch.
(Photographs By Kind Permission of Costa Del Sol News)