On the Glorious First of June, the Lord-Lieutenant of Kent officially opened the QRRA Veterans Horticultural Rehabilitation, Social and Community Clubhouse at Kennels Field. Blessed with clear skies, the day began with an open event for members of the Regiment and Associations, featuring vibrant entertainment from the talented V-Twin Band, the Queen’s Regimental Association Corps of Drums, and the Band of The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment.
Visitors enjoyed a variety of stalls, including representatives from the Royal British Legion Industries, Homes 4 Heroes, and Military Modelling for Veterans. A highlight of the day was the arrival of a Royal Navy Wasp helicopter, alongside impressive displays of Scimitar and Saladin armoured cars. Support was also provided by the Faversham Detachment of the PWRR Cadets, who managed car parking and ran a popular Nerf stand.
Lady Colgrain was escorted to the Clubhouse by a two-bike convoy and warmly welcomed by Howard Copsey, President of the QRRA. She planted a commemorative tree to mark the occasion, inspected cadets, and presented WOII Colin Port, Detachment Sergeant Major, with his Coronation Medal.
The formal opening was announced with a stirring ‘Call to Duty’ by two buglers, followed by a powerful performance from the Corps of Drums. Lady Colgrain then met guests including the High Sheriff of Kent, Jonathan Neame and his wife Lucie, senior regimental representatives, trustees of the Benevolent Fund, local councillors, sponsors, and families connected to the QRRA. The event marked the successful completion of Phase I of the project after five years of dedicated effort. In her speech, Lady Colgrain praised the achievement and looked ahead to Phase II – Operation Veteran Project, which will provide further support and activities for veterans in partnership with organisations inspired by this initiative.
