Glitz, glamour, pomp and ceremony rather than F-35 stealth fighters and Merlin helicopters filled the hangar of HMS Prince of Wales as the carrier hosted the principal fundraising event for the Navy’s premier charity.
For one night the Portsmouth-based warship became home to The Sky’s the Limit Ball - a spectacular Top Gun-themed event hosted by former Royal Marine-turned-television-presenter, JJ Chalmers.
It’s the major fundraiser of 2024 for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and drew more than 500 supporters to the carrier at her berth in Portsmouth Naval Base.
Guests were welcomed by First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key and the RNRMC’s Chair of the Board of Trustees, Dr Brian Gilvary.
Once settled in, the guests were treated to performances by the Massed Band of HM Royal Marines, plus Little Red Ambulance – comprising four serving sailors, accompanied by members of the Culdrose Military Wives Choir – and followed by headline act the RPJ Band, whose lead singer is the son of legendary Status Quo axeman Rick Parfitt.
Between acts, presenter JJ, who was helped by the RNRMC after being severely injured by a homemade bomb while patrolling in Afghanistan in 2011, stepped to the fore.
He told those present his appearance was a debt of honour to the RNRMC.
“Ultimately, I wouldn’t be here without the support of the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and I’m honoured to support it in return,” he said.
Admiral Key reinforced the charity’s importance to the entire naval family."The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity is vital in assisting all those in the naval service, whether they serve at sea, in the air, or on land, as well as their families, to whom we remain forever indebted,” he told guests.
“The funds raised this evening will enable the charity to continue in its mission to ensure that all members of our naval community feel valued and supported for life."
