Somerset’s family-favourite Military History Weekend event at The Helicopter Museum — home to the world’s largest collection of helicopters — saw 1,600 visitors across the two days. A weekend designed to honour the Armed Forces community and raise vital funds, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity was the weekend’s dedicated charity.
Amongst the weekend where wartime life was brought to life, including tanks firing, iconic 1940s’ music and a Control Tower and Pilots Block reanimated by re-enactors, SSAFA’s stall was a hub of activity. Represented by the Somerset Branch of SSAFA, the stall included a teddy tombola, a children’s quiz and SSAFA goody-bags. Chosen as the dedicated charity for the event for the previous two years, SSAFA has been attending since 2022.
Located in Weston-super-Mare, The Helicopter Museum’s Military History Weekend is its biggest fundraising event of the year.
Paul Denovan, Community Engagement Volunteer for SSAFA Somerset, said:
“The museum team know that a great many of their visitors have a military connection and, with SSAFA being a trusted source of support for serving personnel, veterans and their families in their time of need, it was a natural fit.“A key driver for the weekend was raising awareness of our teams of trained local volunteers and employees who provide practical, emotional and financial assistance to the Armed Forces community. We understand that behind every uniform is a person. And we are here for that person and their family, any time they need us and in any way they need us to make sure they never battle alone.“During the weekend, we felt privileged to hear dozens of stories about how SSAFA has previously provided assistance to a family member – hugely rewarding!“Working with The Helicopter Museum staff is always a delight; their practical assistance, friendliness and hospitality ensure our team have a great time.”
Jess Porter, the Museum’s Business Manager, said:
“It was a fantastic weekend, bringing lots of visitors to the Museum and thus providing vital support to both SSAFA and the Museum. A great many of our visitors have some family connection with the Armed Forces and so having a knowledgeable, friendly SSAFA team on site makes perfect sense. It is a great opportunity for SSAFA to raise their profile locally and identify potential clients. Paul and his team are always so cheerful and working alongside them is a delight.”
To learn more about SSAFA, visit www.ssafa.org.uk
