Soldiering On Awards 2018 Finalists Reception – 8 Feb 18
Last night saw the 2018 award finalists gather together for a special celebratory reception held in central London.
The evening’s host, Soldiering On Awards President, General the Lord Dannatt, welcomed 170 guests, including our 41 finalists along with their nominators, to the Cholmondeley Room and Terrace at the Palace of Westminster.
In this glorious setting, guests were given the opportunity to meet the distinguished judging panel that had selected them from this year’s vast number of outstanding nominees – and we raised a toast to all finalists with a glass of Champagne Taittinger.
Speaking during the event, Lord Dannatt praised all the finalists. “Now into its eighth year, the Soldiering On Awards exists to unite all of our community, together in a common purpose. Our aim is to recognise the achievements of the entire diverse group of people who have served their country, including our Reserve Forces and Cadets. “We recognise the enterprising skills of those who have set up businesses, and of course our animal partners! And we recognise those organisations and individuals who support this community. The finalists here tonight are outstanding examples of the very best that our community produces!”
Vice President and co-Chair of Judges, Debra Allcock-Tyler, added, “It is important to also thank tonight the special people who took the
time and trouble in their busy lives to put pen to paper to nominate a person or organisation they considered deserving of an award. You, the nominators have all been invited here tonight so that we can also thank you.”
This year sees the inclusion of three new Business Award categories in partnership with X-Forces.
The organisation’s Patron, Lord Young, was delighted for the finalists. “It is an absolute privilege to see so many talented members of the Armed Forces community shortlisted for the 2018 Soldering On Awards.
“X-Forces Enterprise are particularly delighted to be able to celebrate military-owned businesses this year with their three categorised Business of the Year awards. Well done to all who have been shortlisted!”
Winners of The People’s Choice Award and Pets at Home Animal Partnership Award will each be chosen by an online public vote to be held during March. We’ll email details closer to the time to ensure you have the opportunity to vote for your favourites.
You can see the list of finalists and their award sponsors by clicking here.
Winners will be announced at the Black Tie gala reception, dinner and Awards ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel on 20th April – a night not to be missed! For further information or to purchase tickets, please click here.
Thank you for your continued support at this incredibly exciting time in the awards calendar!
All pictures from the Soldiering On Awards Finalists reception can be seen below (click on the picture for a higher resolution).
