St George’s Day lunch supports Help for Heroes charity

A patriotic St George’s Day lunch took place in Arundel on Sunday (22 April) and helped to raise more than £4,000 for the Help for Heroes charity.

The lunch was organised by Arundel resident Andy Batty and hosted in the Arundel Town Hall.  The use of the hall was funded through the Mayor’s Charity Fund and formed part of the Town’s commitment to commemorate the Centenary of the end of World War One.

More than 80 guests gathered for the event, including Arundel & South Downs MP Nick Herbert.  The event began with watching the local Scouts parade to the Cathedral for the St George’s Day service.  A traditional roast beef lunch followed with classic songs performed by local musicians. 

An auction and raffle helped to raise further funds for the charity.  A portrait of Harry Patch, Britain’s longest surviving WW1 veteran, painted by Arundel artist Karin Moorhouse was one of the top auction lots.

Andy Batty said: “Arundel residents are something else!  Their support for Help for Heroes has been amazing and they certainly know how to party!  I also want to thank our Mayor, Angela Standing, and the town Council for supporting us.  The event was a great success, enjoyed by all, and most importantly helped to raise just over £4,000 for the Help for Heroes charity.”

Mr Herbert said: “Congratulations to Andy Batty for organising a fun and successful event which supported a wonderful cause, Help for Heroes.”

ENDS

Notes

1.     Photograph 1  – Guests at Arundel Town Hall enjoying the Feast of St George.  Nick Herbert, front centre, Andy Batty, standing.

2.    Photograph 2 – Charlie Smithers alongside the portrait of Harry Patch, with artist Karin Moorhouse and event organiser Andy Batty.

3.    To read more about Help for Heroes, see www.helpforheroes.org.uk.