World War veterans remembered at Poppy Ball |04 November 2013

It was all about tuxedos and stunning evening gowns on Saturday night at Le Meridien Barbarons hotel as a great number of people turned out for this year’s Poppy Ball.

After a seven-year break, the event which is supported by the British high commission is back on Seychelles’ calendar of social events.

The ball which used to be an annual event is set to raise funds to support the retired Seychelles servicemen who served in the British armed forces.

Among those who attended the ball were former President James Mancham, Designated Minister Vincent Meriton, Minister for Finance, Trade and Investment Pierre Laporte, British high commissioner Lindsay Skoll and veterans.

Guests were welcomed at the entrance by members of the organising committee and that of the Seychelles Ex-Servicemen association and a South African piper playing lovely tunes.

Co-chairpersons of the organising committee Wesley Didon and Roy Fonseka from the association had special words of welcome for the guests and expressed words of gratitude for the turn-out and for their contribution towards such cause.

Mrs Skoll, who is also the Patron of the Poppy Ball, said the evening has a vital purpose.

She added that the poppy is a symbol of hope for the future and reflects the past.

Mrs Skoll also gave thanks to the World War veterans and called on those present to join them on Remembrance Day next week to honour those heroes.

The night ended with a buffet, an auction to raise funds and a dance.

A partial view of guests at the event