The nation’s attention will soon focus on May 8, 2025 – the 80th anniversary of VE Day – and in the run up this historic occasion, West Bromwich Albion Football Club will host SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity at the club’s last match of the season at The Hawthorns.
The Championship match this Saturday (May 3) is against Luton Town, and SSAFA volunteers will be pitching up before the 12.30pm kick-off fundraising for the West Midlands North branch of one of the UK’s oldest military charities.
Funds collected – cash and via a QR code are preferred – will go to supporting serving and former UK Forces of all ranks regardless of ship, squadron or regiment – and their families – from recent and older wars, including those precious few left from WWII.
One of the highlights will be the premiere screening in public of a short, but emotional film featuring Harold Fenwick, a 102-year-old WWII veteran helped by SSAFA for more than a decade.
Wounded after D-Day during the advance through France, he is a proud but humble veteran, and has regained his independence after SSAFA volunteers provided him with a mobility scooter to help him get out an about, including the occasional visit to his local for a pint.
Heidi Webster, Fundraising Coordinator for SSAFA West Midlands North branch, said:
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the opportunity West Brom has given our branch to share some of the work the charity does in their local community with the club’s fans and followers.
“From a chance request when renewing season tickets, less than 24 hours later we received the go ahead and wholehearted support from the operations, marketing, and communications team at West Brom.
“We’d love this to be the start of an ongoing relationship with the club who do so much to support the local community through the Albion Foundation.”
West Bromwich Albion Managing Director Mark Miles added:
“We’re proud to have the SSAFA at The Hawthorns this weekend as we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
“Our football club has a long tradition of supporting the Forces and those who have served their country – alongside their families and loved ones.
“It’s a privilege to play our small part in helping the SSAFA’s continued fundraising efforts.”
To learn more about SSAFA, to access support, or to fundraise to help people like Harold, visit ssafa.org.uk/west-midlands-north.
