QE2 Farewell Lunch
November 12, 2008 by admin
Two hundred invited guests – including the BBC’s Royal Correspondent, Nicholas Witchell – raised £20,000 for youth charity The Prince’s Trust at a lunch on board QE2 in Southampton on Monday. And for many it was their last chance to say farewell to QE2 before she sails off to a new life in Dubai next month.
The visit started at 11:00 in the QEII terminal with a tour of the vessel, followed by a drinks reception in the Queens Room (ballroom on board) and lunch in the Queens Grill Restaurant.
The event brought together a number of familiar faces to Cunard and QE2. Amongst the guests were, Nicholas Witchell, BBC’s Royal Correspondent, Paul Brown from the Prince’s Trust and Tor Stimpson, one of the many young persons whose life has been transformed by this charity.
Before coming to The Prince’s Trust for support, Tor had very few prospects for the future, spending most of her time hanging around Southampton and living in a hostel.
Taking part in The Trust’s Get Into Maritime programme transformed her life, giving her the confidence and qualifications to find work on boats as well as helping other young people.
“I have confidence in myself and my future looks bright for the first time , thanks to the support I received from The Prince’s Trust,” said Tor. “Cunard’s fantastic fundraising efforts will help even more young people change their lives for the better.”
Also attending were past QE2 guests and crew, all had the opportunity to relive many happy times spent on board and say goodbye to QE2 before she departs to Dubai on 11 November.
QE2’s Captain Ian McNaught and Carol Marlow, President and Managing Director of Cunard hosted the reception and lunch that raised £20,000 for the Prince’s Trust, which will help change 15 young lives in the UK.
“ I am absolutely thrilled that Cunard is helping huge numbers of young people to believe in themselves and get into employment or training,” said Paul Brown, The Prince’s Trust. “This money will help young people on our Team programme, building the confidence and qualifications for the rest of their lives.”
Official Press Release Cunard Cruise Lines dated 4th November 2008.
