Prince Harry joined guests at the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch yesterday, an annual event to raise money for soldiers and veterans at the Guildhall.
Prince Harry attends the annual Lord Mayor’s Big Curry lunch at Guildhall. Picture by Andrew Parsons / i-Images
The lunch was hosted by The Lord Mayor, Alderman the Lord Mountevans and Prince Harry was the guest of honour at the ninth Big Curry Lunch. Funds were raised in support of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity raising over £1.4 million since 2008. This money will help soldiers and veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The Prince spoke with some guests, including a number of veterans, whom that charity are helping. Former Captain Wales spoke with Warrant Officer Class 1 Kim Hughe, who has served three operational tours in Afghanistan as a high Threat Improvised Explosive Device Disposal operator and was awarded the George Cross.
Chefs at this event served more than 1000 guests with fabulous spicy curry dishes; Harrt switched his favourite dishes – beef wellington and fish pie – for a tandoori curry with pilau rice and mango kulfi for dessert.
Tickets were £95 inclusive of food and unlimited wine and beer. Also during the lunch, diners had the opportunity to big in a draw and silent auction for prizes and unique experiences, including a diamond necklace designed by Susannah Lovis.
Last year, Princess Anne was the guest of honour.
The former army captain spoke with a guest and revealed his father’s food interests saying: “It’s a shame my Dad’s not here – he loves a good curry”. Prince Charles is president of the British-Asian Trust, too.
Harry also wrote a message in the event’s programme:
“Although this is the first time I have attended the lunch, I am keenly aware of the significant contribution this event makes to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and their ability to support soldiers and veterans, both regulars and reservists, who have served in conflicts from the 1940s through to Iraq and Afghanistan, and their families.
“In 2016, as we continue to reflect on the First World War, we remember the selfless service and dedication shown by members of the armed forces, past and present.”
