One very special supporter was recognised for her long-standing support of the Battle of Britain Memorial at the annual Christmas lunch for volunteers and staff yesterday (Dec 18).
Rae Bark was presented with a certificate marking 15 years of volunteer support at the Capel-le-Ferne tribute to the Few - although she is thought to have served for longer than that.
The presentation to Rae, who is standing down as a volunteer, was made by President of the Trust Sir Stephen Dalton, pictured right in the bottom of three pictures below with Rae and site manager Jules Gomez.
The Christmas lunch is organised to thank the Trust's many volunteers, who literally keep the building and the site open, tidy and operating, and the small team of staff who work so hard to ensure visitors receive the warmest of welcomes.
Sir Stephen pointed out that it was the efforts of the whole team, supported by the Trustees, that had contributed to the site receiving a Gold award as the Small Visitor Attraction of the Year in this year's Beautiful South Awards for Excellence, announced less than a week before Monday's dinner (middle picture).
During an enjoyable lunch at the Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel and Spa, Chairman Richard Hunting also presented Jules Gomez with a bottle of wine to mark his ten years with the Trust, having joined to oversee the construction of The Wing in 2013 (top picture).
The Wing and car park will be closed from 3pm this Wednesday (20 Dec) and will reopen on Wednesday 3 January at 10am. Thje Memorial itself is always open to visitors on foot or who arrive on public transport.
