Internationally acclaimed war author and former frontline journalist Damien Lewis headlined a special fundraising event in support of Alabaré, a UK charity dedicated to supporting veterans who are homeless and vulnerable. Hosted at the Everyman Cinema in Salisbury, and co-sponsored by Handelsbanken and Trethowans, the evening brought together supporters for a powerful presentation that merged history, heroism, and hope.
Drawing from his deep knowledge of Britain’s elite special forces, Lewis captivated the audience with stories from the birth of the SAS during WWII—focusing particularly on the daring exploits of Operation Postmaster. His talk was powerfully enhanced by exclusive clips from Guy Ritchie’s new film The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, which dramatises these real-life missions and has yet to be released in the UK.
“Alabaré carry out vital work with the veteran’s community across Britain, something that is very dear to my heart. As someone who has myself been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, from my days as a war reporter, I understand the challenges all who have served on the front-line face. Alabaré endeavour to make the world a better place for all those who have sacrificed a great deal in defence of the freedom’s we cherish today. These is no better cause.”
The evening also featured John Axford, Chairman of Woolley & Wallis an expert on the BBC’s Antiques Roadshow, who presented several rare and symbolic auction lots. Among them: a bespoke replicas of SAS legend Col. Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne’s medals, an exclusive bottle of SAS signature port, and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to name a character in Lewis’s forthcoming book.
“It was a superb evening with a truly inspirational speaker,” said Andrew Lord, CEO of Alabaré. “Damien brought to life the audacity and bravery of the original SAS – stories that resonate deeply, especially as we approach the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end. His ongoing efforts to secure a posthumous Victoria Cross for Paddy Mayne speak to the enduring impact of those heroes. Thanks to the generosity of our guests, Handelsbanken, and Trethowans, we raised an incredible £30,000, all of which will support veterans in need.”
