The fifty guests at a Remembrance Dinner on November 10th marking the 100th anniversary since the end of WW1 helped to raise €724 for the British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.
The western Algarve section of the Royal British Legion Portugal hosted the dinner at the Hotel Belavista in Praia da Luz, with the theme “Thank You!” to recognize the sacrifice of the fallen in what is known as The Great War.
Sue Salisbury-Howe, who organised the event with her husband James, told us:
“The tables were dressed with balloons and poems of remembrance, especially the very moving poem “The Poppy – I Am Not A Badge Of Honour” which was written by Paul Hunter, a joiner from Benton in Newcastle.
“We also provided information on WW1, RBL key rings, pens, pencils, rulers etc, which the guests were able to take home with them”
Sue also provided each guest - and the staff at the Belavista - with a homemade “Poppy Cupcake” she baked especially for the occasion.
The evening was opened by Alun Roberts with his welcome/remembrance speech, followed by a minute’s silence.
An auction and raffle were held following the dinner, with a Mystery Envelope - a travel voucher from PDM Travel to the value of €50, which was won by Tim Prowse from Aljezur.
Sue added: “We then settled down to a nostalgic sing along, then danced the evening away to Nigel and Sarah from Collar and Cuffs who very kindly donated their time for this special evening.
“Everyone enjoyed a really fantastic, atmospheric evening, especially our Canadian guest, Douglas from Toronto, who was staying at the hotel and wanted to join in the fun!”
