The Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers treated Wightlink passengers and crew to an onboard performance today (Wednesday).
The musicians gave a 20 minute concert as they travelled to the Island on Wightlink’s flagship St Clare this morning and also played as they marched off the vessel to provide a shoreside spectacle at Fishbourne. Both performances were a thank you to Wightlink which had supported transport the 27-strong band and 3 vehicles with discounted transport.
The band visited the Island to play a series of fundraising concerts in Newport and Ryde in support of the charity Combat Stress.
The visit had particular significance for Sgt Kirk Fennell who left the Isle of Wight at the age 16 to join the Army as a musician. After serving for 25 years, he retired in January 2012. Throughout his career, he served in 2 armed conflicts – the Gulf War in 1991 and the Iraq War in 2003, both in medical support roles. After retiring from the regulars he joined the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers reserve band.
Kirk says:
“It was great to come back to the Island in support of Combat Stress. Many colleagues, some from the Island, have suffered as a result of serving in armed conflict developing issues as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. They sought help from Combat Stress who provided care support and a road to recovery.
“We would like to thank Wightlink for assisting us with travel and also the great many Islanders who supported us with donations at our concerts. It was a really successful visit.”
Wightlink Chief Executive Keith Greenfield says:
“We were delighted to support the Band of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and their work in support of such a worthwhile cause as Combat Stress. Their performance on board and when marching off at Fishbourne provided a spectacle that was well received by passengers and staff and we hope to welcome them back for another visit in the future.”
