Remembering a famous visitor at Belmont

Today we learned the sad news of Dame Vera Lynn's passing. The voice of a generation, her music provided both cheer and solemn reflection during the Second World War and beyond. Known for her rendition of We'll Meet Again, the song touched a new generation during the recent 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day on the 8th May this year.

Dame Vera was bestowed several honours throughout her lifetime, including the Order of the Companions of Honour for her services to entertainment and charity which she received in 2016. It is her work in the latter sector which enabled the Boys' and Girls' Welfare Society (as our charity was then known) and Dame Vera to cross paths in 1969 when she opened the Belmont Garden Fete (an event that was held every June by the Bethesda School). 

Dame Vera Lynn (centre) pictured on stage with students from the Bethesda School at the opening ceremony of the Belmont Garden Fete in 1969

Dame Vera had a passion for supporting young people with cerebral palsy, founding charities to support and raise awareness of the condition; the Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity continues to provide invaluable services to children under the age of five and their families. Her presence at our annual fete was just one small example of her immeasurable kindness and commitment to enhancing the lives of children with disabilities.

Pictured at the Belmont Fete (1969)