Big Curry Lunch raises £2 million for service charities

The annual Lord Mayor's Big Curry Lunch has now raised over £2M during its twelve-year history. The event, which is organised by ABF The Soldiers' Charity, supports members of Her Majesty's Armed Forces who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

This year's Lord Mayor's Big Curry Lunch took place on Thursday 4 April at London's Guildhall with guest of honour HRH The Duke of Sussex in attendance.

His Royal Highness met with beneficiaries from the three charities supported by the event, ABF The Soldiers' Charity, the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, including RAF Benevolent Fund Ambassador Matt Neve and his wife Zoe. Matt has been supported by the RAF Benevolent Fund since being medically discharged from the RAF and now competes internationally in archery competitions.

Matt Neve said: "It was a real privilege to have a proper chat with Prince Harry. I spoke to him about my mental health and he told me about his campaign to have PTSD recognised as an illness rather than a disorder. Harry also chatted to my wife Zoe and asked her about how my illness affected her and the family.

"I was very proud to be there as an Ambassador for the RAF Benevolent Fund, letting people know about how the charity has helped me."

Guests at the lunch were treated to unlimited curry, beer and wine and had the opportunity to take part in a fantastic silent auction and raffle and browse stalls from some of the livery companies attending the event.

Thank you to everyone who supported the event.