By Isle of Wight Observer
The Island was represented at the Royal Albert Hall Remembrance Sunday Concert attended by King Charles, Prince William and Princess Kate on Saturday evening.
Standard bearer, Tristan Allen, from Bembridge, a member of the IW Royal British Legion County was one of 40 chosen to be in the show floor for the rolling dip of standards for the Rose Walk Past for Afghan 10. The concert also featured Welsh singing legend, Sir Tom Jones, Jack Savoretti and Alexandra Burke.
It was a long day for Tristan, who explained: “I arrived Friday afternoon ready for a 4pm rehearsal which continued until 10.30pm. On Saturday, I was up early for rehearsals from 7.30am until 10am then breakfast; we then had a full rehearsal followed by the matineé performance!
“The evening performance was also amazing. After waiting for the King, who was 10 minutes late, we began with the March down the steps, the live music and videos were incredibly moving.
“After the performance finished around 9pm, it was a rush back to the hotel and then to make the ferry. My fiancée, Michelle McHugh, was with me and we were able to catch the 11.55pm with Red Funnel but it didn’t leave till 1.30am due to the bow doors not closing. We were back home by 3am and on parade in Brighstone on Sunday at 10.40am!
“It was an amazing experience, and I was proud to be involved and to be part of the IW Royal British Legion.”