Moving tribute event commemorates 80th D-Day anniversary

The Waldorf Hotel was the venue for Best of British Events’ London spectacular, attended by the former Head of the British Army.

British veterans were joined by Richard Dannatt CBE, former Head of the British Army, and Nicholas Witchell, BBC’s Royal Correspondent and long-standing news broadcaster, at Best of British Events’ commemorative event to mark the 80th anniversary of D-day. 

Nicholas is the founder of the British Normandy Memorial Trust, making his presence a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made. He was joined by Richard Hammond, TV personality and former co-host of Top Gear. Richard recently took on a very special project ahead of the anniversary when he fully restored Field Marshall Montgomery’s Rolls-Royce.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the British Normandy Memorial Trust, a charity dedicated to commemorating the British servicemen and women who lost their lives during the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy in World War II. The Trust manages and maintains the British Normandy Memorial, located near the site of the historic D-Day landings in Normandy, France. Additionally, the Trust engages in educational activities to ensure that future generations understand the significance of the Normandy campaign and the contributions of British forces.

During this moving event, Nicholas shared the story behind the Trust and the creation of the memorial, which came from a discussion with from a young soldier in the Royal Engineers on D-Day, who pointed out that the United Kingdom did not have its own national memorial in Normandy recording the names of all those under British command who died on D-Day and during the Battle of Normandy. This discussion led Nicholas to dedicate his time to change this and, with the support of architects, engineers, veterans, and volunteers, the memorial has become a special place that has captured the hearts of many and helps everyone remember the heroes of World War II.

His speech was accompanied by footage of the memorial, which prompted all guests to rise to their feet and show their respects to the veterans and this remarkable project.

With the support and generosity of guests and sponsors, the event raised over £15,000 on the day.

Ryan Heal, Managing Director of Best of British Events, said: “It was an honour to host this special event that not only provided business leaders and guests with an opportunity to reflect on the bravery and sacrifices of British servicemen and women during World War II, but to give back to a charity that has dedicated years to keeping this important part of our history alive.”

The event was supported by headline sponsor Loch Associates. Coo-sponsors were DevAssist, Webtrends Optimize, Rubix VT, Madison Web Solutions, and media sponsors Sussex Business Times.