Poppy Ball returns to raise funds for military veterans |16 October 2013

After a seven-year break the British high commission supported Poppy Ball is back on the social calendar this year to raise funds to support retired Seychellois servicemen who served in the British armed forces.

Formerly an annual event, the Poppy Ball raises money for the members of the veterans’ associations of Seychellois soldiers who fought for the Commonwealth in a variety of military campaigns.
 
The 2013 fund raising gala event will be held at the Le Meridien Barbarons Hotel on the night of Saturday November 2.

Traditionally one of the most glamorous occasions on Seychelles’ social calendar, the Poppy Ball has been revived this year by the British high commissioner, Lindsay Skoll, who is passionate about the cause.

“I am delighted that, with the vision and tireless work of the organising committee, we have been able to resurrect the Poppy Ball this year,” said the high commissioner.
 
“It will be held a week before Remembrance Sunday and therefore a timely way to honour and thank all those Seychellois who gave such distinguished service, yet who might be vulnerable and needful of assistance in old age. It is my goal to raise enough money to make a meaningful contribution to a range of veterans’ societies, and give something back to those brave men – and their families – who left the safety and beauty of these islands to sacrifice so much in the interests of peace and democratic values for future generations.”

The Poppy Ball organising committee, whose co-chairs are Wesley Didon and Roy Fonseka of the Seychellois Ex-Servicemen’s Association, are still hard at work putting the finishing touches on the event, which will include dinner, dancing and entertainment by a UK performer.

Mr Didon commented: “We’re sure that this is going to be the best Poppy Ball ever. After a break of seven years we all feel that this year’s event must send a message that the Poppy Ball is back as one of the highlights of the year. We’re determined to let the veterans know that their sacrifice and their commitment will not be forgotten and that we remain immeasurably grateful for their bravery and selflessness.”

Mrs Skoll held a reception in July to appeal to sponsors to assist make this event a reality. The British high commission and the Poppy Ball Committee are immensely grateful to all their supporters, for their generosity. Already promising to be a sell-out event, any last-minute ticket or sponsorship interest should be registered with the committee on tel: 252 9918.