Events Guide 2016 Get together and raise money for soldiers, veterans and their families
Hello and welcome to our 2016 Events Guide. You know that events are an incredible way to get fit, spend time with friends, laugh, eat, create memories and face fears. Taking part in events with The Soldiers’ Charity offers even more than that. You are ensuring that no soldier gets left behind, that those who have fought for us are never abandoned or forgotten. Your fundraising secures their future. Whether you join the elite ranks of our Fundraising Army in our challenge event series (pages 5 - 11) or get the family round for a Big Curry (page 3), show your commitment to the Servicemen and women who do so much for us. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events this year. Together for The Soldiers’ Charity.
Steve Oatley | Head of Events | soatley@soldierscharity.org For a full events listing visit soldierscharity.org/events
How your fundraising has supported those in need “I’m Harry and over the last couple of years I have been over high hills and treacherous waters raising money for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. I love it. Being part of the team, taking on some punishing challenges and supporting our soldiers has been brilliant. I have Yomped, run marathons, trekked across France on the Frontline Walk; and each event has been a great experience. The work that the Charity does makes such a huge difference and to help them, in my own small way, is very rewarding. I hope to see you at an event next year!”
Last year, we spent some £7.7million on delivering grants, to over 5,000 soldiers, veterans and their immediate families, and provided funding to 72 charities which deliver specialist support on our collective behalf.
8% Elderly care
7% Family 31% Housing
11% Mobility
13% Employment & Training 30% Wellbeing
For more information about what we do visit soldierscharity.org
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Enjoy the Nation’s Favourite Dish for the Army’s National Charity The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch
Your Curry Event
Join the Lord Mayor of the City of London at the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch 2016. Taking place on the 7th April in the splendid setting of Guildhall, the Lunch raises much needed funds for soldiers and veterans who have been affected by military service in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Everyone loves a good curry and The Soldiers’ Charity Big Curry is your chance to get together with your friends and family to enjoy the nation’s favourite dish in support of our soldiers, veterans and their families.
Join us in this incredible setting as the City unites to support our Armed Forces. Enjoy delicious curries and free flowing drinks with the Lord Mayor and Royal Guest of Honour at this truly unforgettable event.
07 April Lord Mayor’s Big Curry, Guildhall, London
Hold your own curry event or head down to your local curry house and make a donation to help soldiers most in need.
Whenever you fancy it! Big Curry, anywhere you like!
Grab a beer and a Balti at your local takeaway
Get the family round for a great home cooked curry
Challenge your friends to a game of Cookie Roulette
For more information on our Lord Mayor’s Big Curry, and to buy tickets visit soldierscharity.org/lordmayors
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Get your free fundraising pack now at soldierscharity.org/bigcurry
03
Red White & Blue Day 2016 Every October thousands of school children show their support for our Armed Forces by wearing red, white and blue for one day, raising money to support military charities. Get your local school involved with free lesson plans, loads of materials and a fantastic insight into the history of our fighting forces while raising money for those who need our help. All the money raised is split between the three national charities of the Armed Forces: ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund and the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity.
14 October Red, White & Bue Day, Nationwide
Enrol today into our elite Army: THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY FUNDRAISING ARMY. Your primary mission is to raise vital funds to support our soldiers, veterans and their families. We are looking for recruits to join our FUNDRAISING ARMY; experience the camaraderie, adrenaline and sense of adventure by taking on one of our ultimate challenges. Do you have the drive to rise through the ranks by raising money to help those who fought and gave so much for us? All recruits in our FUNDRAISING ARMY events start off as a Private and are promoted when fundraising milestones have been achieved. How far will you rise? Outrank your mates – enlist now! For more information visit redwhiteblueday.co.uk
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“A FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE WHICH WILL LIVE WITH ME FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE.”
“THE TOUGHEST PHYSICAL THING I HAVE EVER DONE.”
The Frontline Walk challenges you to walk 100km in three days across the Western Front of France and Belgium. Not a challenge for the faint hearted, it will push you physically and emotionally as you follow in the footsteps of those who fought 100 years ago.
The Alliance Trust Cateran Yomp (Yomp is a military term for a longdistance march) is an epic adventure challenge. Teams of 3-6 people take on 54 miles (Gold) in 24 hours across the rugged terrain of the Scottish wilderness. There is also a 36.5 (Silver) or a 22 (Bronze) mile option.
Starting at Lochnagar Crater and finishing at the Menin Gate with the Ceremony of the Last Post, this tough but poignant event will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Whatever distance you choose, the Yomp will test you to your limits both physically and mentally. It will also be an unforgettable weekend with your friends and colleagues. Take on the best. Take on the Yomp!
05 – 09 October Frontline Walk, France and Belgium
11 – 12 June Cateran Yomp, Scotland
To find out more information, visit soldierscharity.org/frontlinewalk
To find out more information, visit soldierscharity.org/yomp
RUNNING 10k Runs
Lace up your running shoes and step up for The Soldiers’ Charity. Sprint, run, jog or bimble to the finish line but do it for soldiers, veterans and their families. The Fundraising Army is with you every step of the way, with specialist training plans and incredible support, it’s time to earn that PB!
30 May
Bupa London 10,000 Take on this epic run through the centre of London as part of the elite Fundraising Army. Beat your personal best or crawl across the finish line, it’s your Fundraising Army rank that counts.
Half Marathons 13 March
Adidas Silverstone Marathon Join our elite fundraising troops on the iconic Silverstone circuit and follow in the footsteps of the greats of Formula 1. Outrank your mates and show off your stripes as you fly down the Hanger Straight.
09 October
The Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon The unmissable Royal Parks Half Marathon is one for the bucket list. Taking in the spectacular sites of the capital and beautiful Royal Parks. Places get snapped up fast by the Fundraising Army so join up now – don’t miss out.
Marathons 17 April
Brighton Marathon It’s fast, it’s scenic and The Fundraising Army is taking on the Brighton Marathon for the first time. What rank will you be showing as you cross the finish line and dive into the sea for a cool down?
24 April
Virgin Money London Marathon The most iconic marathon in the world. The Fundraising Army tackles the 26.2 miles, changing the lives of soldiers, veterans and their families. Run, sponsor or cheer them on. It’s a must attend date in the calender.
25 September BMW Berlin Marathon Visit the incredible city of Berlin with the Fundraising Army and take on this record breaking course. Join the greatest runners in the world – so book early for your guaranteed place.
To find out more information, visit soldierscharity.org/runs
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NEW RECRUIT
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RISE THROUGH THE RANKS OF THE FUNDRAISING ARMY. DIG DEEP TO SUPPORT SOLDIERS, VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES. TOGETHER FOR THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY.
EXTREME
CYCLING
A skydive is the ultimate adrenaline rush and a once in a lifetime experience! We’ve teamed up with the world’s finest skydivers, the Red Devils – the Parachute Regiment’s display team – to bring you an exceptional challenge! Do something incredible and freefall from 13,000ft!
Enlist in the Fundraising Army and jump on your bike. Rise through the ranks as you wheelie your way across the finish line or trundle along in the autobus, be part of this elite fundraising force. 31 July
Skydive dates at Old Sarum Airfield (Salisbury) 23 June
21 July
11 August
22 September
To find out more information, visit soldierscharity.org/extreme
Ride London-Surrey 100 A world-class festival of cycling developed by the Mayor of London. Inspired by London’s 2012 Olympic Road Race, the 100 mile RideLondon-Surrey route takes you past iconic landmarks, up renowned climbs and through closed roads. An experience to remember.
To find out more information, visit soldierscharity.org/cycle
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Regional Events
Micky Yule
Wheels on the Western Front
Micky served in Afghanistan in 2010. Only 8 weeks into his tour he stood on a pressure-plate IED; as a result of the blast Micky lost both legs, suffered a shattered pelvis and fractured his arm, amongst other internal injuries. Micky has now had 40 operations.
Join us for a unique, historical cycle ride to the Western Front battlefields of WWI, with special emphasis on the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme. Take up the challenge of following the route of Kitchener’s Army and relive the history, with expert insight from acclaimed BBC historian Andy Robertshaw.
“The support I’ve had has been great, it’s enabled me to push on and get back to normal life.”
31 July – 06 August Wheels on the Western Front, Northern France and Belgium
Micky is currently in training for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio as a powerlifter. He is also this year’s ambassador for one of our flagship events – The Alliance Trust Cateran Yomp.
For more information visit soldierscharity.org/wotwf
Spinnaker Tower Abseil
“It’s going to be a busy year but I’m really looking forward to my new Ambassador role for The Yomp. Meeting the people who are pushing themselves to the limits and raising money for The Soldiers’ Charity is going to be extremely humbling. I am so grateful for the money everyone raises and hope to see you there.”
Not for the faint hearted, the Spinnaker Tower has the ability to make your knees go weak just by looking at it. Soaring 170 metres above Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent, the Tower is taller than the London Eye, Blackpool Tower and Big Ben and has already established itself as a national icon. It’s the perfect thing to abseil off.
16 – 17 July Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth To find out more about the thousands of soldiers and veterans who we have helped visit soldierscharity.org
To find out about all of our events across the country visit soldierscharity.org/events or contact your local office – details on the inside back cover
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is registered charity in England and Wales 1146420 and in Scotland SC03989
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Image by Alistair Devine
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Mike Vallance
Volunteer Opportunities
Mike is one of our star fundraisers. He first started raising money for The Soldiers’ Charity in 2008 after the death of a friend’s son in Afghanistan:
We are always looking for volunteers who are keen to support our fundraising activities and help us raise awareness across the British Isles. We have lots of roles available so let us know if you would like to be involved.
“I first became fully aware of The Soldiers’ Charity after the death of a friend’s son, Private Joe Whittaker, who was killed in Afghanistan in June 2008. My wife and I chose to fundraise because we could see that it was a charity that provided assistance to soldiers of all ages, all backgrounds, all forms of service.” All these years on he is still fundraising because he knows that soldiers and veterans will continue to need support post Afghanistan. “It is really important that The Soldiers’ Charity exists today because we have a moral obligation to our Servicemen and women; to support them in the way that they support us. They put their lives, and families’ livelihoods on the line, so deserve universal and unqualified support, which is what the Charity offers.”
Contact our events team on events@soldierscharity.org or visit soldierscharity.org/events for more information.
Corporate Opportunities From headline sponsorship of our flagship City event, The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch (page 2), to inspiring your team to take on a trek across the Scottish Highlands (page 7), The Soldiers’ Charity events portfolio offers organisations a number of excellent sponsorship, corporate hospitality and employee engagement opportunities. We would love to sit down with you to discuss your requirements and talk through your options, so we can provide a bespoke package tailored to your individual business needs. To find out more, please contact Bernie Critchley on 020 7811 3201 or bcritchley@soldierscharity.org
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Year Planner 2016
Our Offices
February
August
13
11
Glasgow Big Curry
Skydive, Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury *
March
September
13
06
Adidas Silverstone Half Marathon, Silverstone Race Course *
Lord Mayor’s Big Curry, London Born Survivor in Lowther Castle, Cumbria
17 Brighton Marathon, Brighton * 21-24 St George’s Festival, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
24
Virgin Money London Marathon, London *
May 07
Stoke Military Tattoo, Kings Hall, Stoke
07 13-15
Thursford Collection, Fakenham, Norfolk
April 07 09
11 11 22 24
Rugby4Heroes Festival, Warwickshire
28-29 Edinburgh Running Festival,
June 06 08-09 11-12 23 25
01-30 05-09 07 09
Frontline Walk, Belgium and France *
14
The Royal Parks Foundation Red, White and Blue Day, Nationwide
November 03
Michaelmas Fair, Powderham Castle, Near Exeter
December Christmas Carol Concert, St Botolph’s Church, Colchester
10
Family Carol Service, The Royal Hospital Chelsea, London
Buxton Military Tattoo Skydive, Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury * Prudential Ride London-Surrey * (31 July – 6 August) Wheels on the
To find out more information about any of our events; Tel. 020 7811 3202 Email. events@soldierscharity.org Web. soldierscharity.org/events
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Mountbarrow House, 6-20 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9RB T. 020 7901 8900 E. fundraising@soldierscharity.org
2 East Anglia
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building PO4, Room 6, Merville Barracks, Circular Road South, Colchester, Essex CO2 7UT T. 01206 817 105 E. eastanglia@soldierscharity.org
3 East Midlands
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Chetwynd Barracks, Chilwell, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 5HA T. 0115 957 2103 E. eastmidlands@soldierscharity.org
4 Home Counties
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Wellington House, St Omer Barracks, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 2BG T. 01252 348 270 E. homecounties@soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Wyvern Barracks, Exeter, Devon EX2 6AR T. 01392 496 412 E. southwest@soldierscharity.org
12 Wales
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, HQ 160 Infantry Brigade and HQ Wales, The Barracks, Brecon LD3 7EA T. 01874 613 351 E. wales@soldierscharity.org
13 West
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Bldg 750, Picton Barracks, Bulford Camp, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 9NY T. 01980 672337 E. west@soldierscharity.org
14 West Midlands
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Building V5, Venning Barracks, Donnington, Telford TF2 8JT T. 01952 674 323/322 E. westmidlands@soldierscharity.org
5 London
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Block 7 (Room G39), Wellington Barracks, London SW1E 6HQ T. 020 7414 3321 E. london@soldierscharity.org
6 Northern Ireland
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ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Bldg 45, Thiepval Barracks, Lisburn BT28 3NP T. 02892 678 112 E. ni@soldierscharity.org
7 North East & Yorkshire
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Hipswell Lodge, Smuts Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire DL9 3AX T. 01748 874 127 E. northeast@soldierscharity.org
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8 North West
* Fundraising Army Event
Spinnaker Tower Abseil, Portsmouth
11 South West
Edinburgh Big Curry
Armed Forces Day
Western Front Cycling Event, France
16
National Big Curry Month
Skydive, Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury *
July 02 16-17 21 31 31
Born Survivor, Capesthorne Hall,
Half Marathon, London *
Big One Abseil, Blackpool Beach Cateran Yomp, Perthshire, Scotland *
Skydive, Old Sarum Airfield, Salisbury *
October
10 Beating Retreat, London
Yorkshire Three Peaks
Cheshire
Edinburgh BUPA London 10k, London *
The Great North Run, Newcastle
25 BMW Berlin Marathon, Germany * 27-28 Early, Early Christmas Fair, Tidworth
South Downs Stomp, West Sussex Old Leamingtonians Rugby Club,
30
Concert and Beating Retreat at
1 Head Office
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Fulwood Barracks, Preston PR2 8AB T. 01772 260356 E. northwest@soldierscharity.org
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9 Scotland
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ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, The Castle, Edinburgh EH1 2YT T. 0131 310 5132/5116 E. scotland@soldierscharity.org
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12
1, 5
10 South East
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Brompton Barracks, Chatham, Kent ME4 4UG T. 01634 822 408 E. southeast@soldierscharity.org
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Thank you to everyone who took part in events for The Soldiers’ Charity in 2015 – your support enables us to be there for soldiers, veterans and their families when they need us most. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a charity registered in England and Wales (1146420) and in Scotland (SC039189). Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales (07974609). Registered Office: Mountbarrow House, 6-20 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9RB Tel: 020 7811 3202, Email: events@soldierscharity.org, Web: soldierscharity.org
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