Bournemouth Air Festival has confirmed it will be hosting The First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff , Admiral Sir George Zambellas KCB DSC ADC at next month’s event. The professional head of the Royal Navy, Sir George will be here Friday 29th August visiting, amongst others, the flotilla of ships in the bay, meeting members of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines and seeing the Reserves and Cadets at work throughout the festival site.
Commodore Jamie Miller, Naval Regional Commander, said; “We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming our leader, The First Sea Lord, to the biggest community engagement event in the Royal Navy’s calendar. We are incredibly pleased to be showcasing our work here – the interactive village areas, beach assault demonstrations, music programmes and work of both the Cadets and Reservists – and lots of ships and aircraft too. This really will be cementing the partnerships and relationships we have made over the years and for years to come. And we do like Bournemouth lots too!”
It will be first time Sir George has experienced the incredible Air Festival – added Councillor Lawrence Williams, Tourism Portfolio Holder; “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to demonstrate how the event itself and people of Bournemouth work with and support the Armed Forces. The Royal Navy has played an integral part in making the Air Festival the success it is today and we’re extremely grateful. Year-on-year the event continues to grow with more ships, people and assets. And to have Sir George here to experience this first hand is a real accomplishment for us all!”
The Air Festival introduced a charity wristband in 2011 and has supported forces charities for the last three years. The Royal Navy Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) has been the Navy nominated charity since 2011 and on Friday night the Hotel Miramar will be hosting the official Navy Blue Party in the presence of Sir George Zambellas. Tickets cost £40 per head, for more details call the Hotel Miramar 01202 556581.
