Herts reservists, cadets and engaged employers represented their county during a busy week before the late spring bank holiday.
Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce—with which East Anglia RFCA has close links—hosted a midweek working lunch at the County Showground on 22 May. Many members of the business community who attended the lunchtime event are Armed Forces Covenant signatories and hold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Awards, which the Association supports.
Our current president, the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss CBE CStJ Hon.LLD, gave a speech during the event (above). Col Andre Clark of Beds & Herts Army Cadet Force—who also runs a local business—spoke to chamber members too (below), along with former RAF fighter pilot turned motivational speaker Mandy Hickson (top).
Many of those who enjoyed the lunchtime event were back at the showground, in Redbourn, just two days later, joining reservists based in the area for the Hertfordshire County Show on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May.
The annual show promotes the county’s farming, agriculture and related skills and crafts. Funds raised go to registered charity the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society to support its activities year round.
The Chamber of Commerce always has a strong presence at the county show. Its members supported the Lord-Lieutenant in hosting his Herts Entrepreneurs Challenge, which has become a popular part of the event since it started five years ago.
Cadets and reservists from 254 Medical Regiment and 158 Regiment RLC were in uniform and on hand through both days of the show. There was some great conversation with interested showgoers—and plenty of opportunity to explain just what being a cadet can offer to young people, or how joining the reserve forces can be hugely rewarding for adults.
Reservists, cadets and engaged employers all enjoyed the chance to explain how they support one another. Association chief executive Col Leona Barr-Jones DL VR said it had been, “a brilliant weekend at the Hertfordshire County Show”.
