Barnstaple masquerade ball raises more than £10,000 for struggling veterans

The annual Masquerade Ball for The Veterans Charity has raised more than £10,000 to help support serving and former members of the armed forces.

Held at The Barnstaple Hotel on Saturday (October 24), the popular event hosted more than 130 guests, who enjoyed performances from singer Tamsin Ball, comedian Pat Smith and local band Hatchet Jack.

With its headquarters in Barnstaple, The Veterans Charity supports former members of the UK armed forces across the country, responding to immediate welfare needs including food, utilities, clothing, communications, travel and essential household items.

The money raised will help the charity respond during emergencies when veterans are struggling to afford the basics, providing practical assistance at times when help cannot wait.

Among those attending the Masquerade Ball were representatives from organisations that support the charity’s work, including The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust, Forces Support, Ferrovial UK and the Veterans’ Foundation.

Danny Greeno, chief executive and co-founder of The Veterans Charity, said: “To raise more than £10,000 in a single evening is a tremendous result and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make it possible. Our guests, entertainers, supporters and the team at The Barnstaple Hotel all helped create a very special night.

“Behind this wonderful total is something deeply practical: food for someone with an empty fridge, electricity to keep a home warm and essential items that help a Veteran regain some stability and dignity.

“We are proud to call North Devon home. Seeing people come together here to support Veterans across the UK means a great deal to our team and, most importantly, to those who will benefit from their generosity.”

The charity would like to thank all those who attended, donated or contributed to the evening. To learn more about the charity’s work or make a donation, visit https://www.veteranscharity.org.uk