After two years, following 18 months in lockdown, the army’s national charity held an informal dinner hosted by Pukaar Group.
The President and Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur OBE, and 18 members of the Leicestershire and Rutland Committee of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity were joined by representatives of local regiments and enjoyed a delicious Indian banquet at Tandem Restaurant and Bar on Highcross Street, Leicester. It was the first time the committee had met in person after 24 months of separation.
In his speech, the county chairman Colonel David Young TD DL reminded everyone what a difficult time the charity sector had experienced over the last year. With dramatically increased demands on the Charity from soldiers, veterans and families in need over the period, the grants committee had worked tirelessly to deal with each case. They’d also had to contend with their funding reserves being practically depleted due to their inability to raise funds during the difficult time.
He explained: “In Leicestershire and Rutland we have been very fortunate to have a loyal supporter base who have answered our appeals so willingly”.
He also thanked the generosity of Pukaar Group for sponsoring the evening which helped the Committee to re-engage with each other and regenerate the charity’s commitment to fundraising activities.
Overall, collection activity on the evening raised over £700.
Tandem Indian Restaurant, located in the heart of the city centre, hosted the beautiful evening and put on a delicious spread of cocktails, mocktails and Indian delicacies. They were very happy to be involved in the event and owners, Snehal and Crystal D’Souza said:
“It makes us really happy to host events that will ultimately give back to the community. It was a pleasure to curate the menu for this evening and we really wanted it to be a special night for the charity and guests. It looks like everyone had a great time and we got to support a good cause which is all that matters in the end.”
